Long Tailed Tit (Aegithalos caudatus)

Quick off the mark and 'twitchy', the long-tailed tit has evolved a tail that is actually longer than its body. As a matter of fact, among all species of birds in the UK, the long-tailed tit has the longest tail in direct proportion to its body. And, interestingly, the long-tailed tit is not a member of the Tit family, but of the Aegithalidae family which is comprised of small passerine birds.

In terms of appearance, the long-tailed tit is distinct for its small stature. With pinkish streaks on the shoulders and underparts, the long-tailed tit is primarily black and white with a thin pink ring around the eyes. It's flight pattern is inconsistent and is generally undulating and uneven.

These gregarious birds move around in flocks of roughly twenty. There is generally no fear of eating around humans and they are a common bird to spot, especially in the garden and open scrubland.

The long tailed tit's nest is comprised mainly of spider's webs, lichen, moss and grass and is often found to be lined with feathers and hair. This variable of materials makes the long-tailed tit nest somewhat elastic and flexible. These nests can be found among hedges, in trees and bushes.

The eggs are smooth and speckled with light pinkish-red speckles. Breeding usually starts in early April; the incubation period lasts for around 12 - 14 days and there are around 14 - 18 fledge days. The communal nature of long-tailed tits means that, should other individuals fail to breed, help to feed the young can be sought from other adults.