Birds

Eurasian Blue Tit

Cyanistes caeruleus

Eurasian Blue Tit

Overview

The Eurasian Blue Tit is one of the most colourful and endearing birds of the Danube Delta. Although small, it is extremely bold and acrobatic, able to hang upside down from the thinnest branches to forage. In the Delta it is present year-round, a faithful visitor to gardens in winter.

Physical Characteristics

Instantly recognised by its blue cap, white cheeks outlined in black and yellow belly with a dark stripe (less visible than in Great Tit). Wings and tail are also blue. Smaller and more delicate than the Great Tit.

Habitat & Distribution

Occupies deciduous forest, willow and poplar gallery woodland along the Danube and village gardens. In winter often enters reedbeds searching for larvae in broken reed stems.

Behaviour & Diet

Highly efficient insectivore, consuming huge quantities of aphids and caterpillars when raising young. In winter switches to seeds and is strongly attracted to bird feeders. Very vocal, emitting high-pitched cheerful trills.

Conservation Status

LC. A highly adaptable species benefiting from cavities in old trees in Delta gallery woodland.

Sources

  • SOR.ro - Pițigoiul albastru
  • BirdLife International - Blue Tit
  • IUCN Red List
  • Wikipedia.org