The Blue Tit Birds Of Askham Bog

Our nature photographer Jessica Moses has been capturing photographs of the blue tits at Askham Bog Nature Reserve in York, North Yorkshire.

Blue Tits are small birds that are a colourful mix of blue, yellow, white and green, which makes the blue tit one of the most recognisable garden birds in the UK. In winter, family flocks join up with other tits as they search for food. A garden with a couple of blue tits at a feeder at any time may be feeding 20 or more.

Blue tits are common in woodland, hedgerows, parks and gardens. They're widespread and found across the whole of the UK with the exception of some Scottish islands. Blue tits start looking for a place to nest as early as January, usually beginning to build their nest by late March. They favour cosy cavities, such as cracks in trees, crevices in walls and nest boxes.

According to the IUCN red list, blue tits are of least concern and their population is increasing. You can observe and help these birds by placing bird feeders in your garden, particularly during the winter when food is scarce. Blue tits love feasting on mixed bird seed, whole shelled peanuts, fat balls and sunflower hearts. Investing or creating your own nest box will also benefit them for breeding season and for shelter.