Wildlife

Wild Willow Tit UK Population Collapse

Conservation of the willow tit, one of the UK's fastest-declining resident birds, facing multiple threats in woodland habitats.

Key Facts

Willow tit populations have declined by over 90% in the UK since the 1970s
The species excavates its own nest holes in soft rotting wood - a highly specific requirement
Grey squirrel competition for food and habitat is considered a significant factor
Scrub clearance and woodland thinning remove the damp, scrubby habitats willow tits require
Current conservation efforts are identifying key habitat requirements to guide management

Welfare Considerations

Willow tit welfare is linked to availability of very specific habitat structures that have become extremely rare in UK woodlands. Individual birds unable to excavate nest sites fail to breed, contributing to the ongoing population collapse. Targeted habitat management is urgently needed.

What You Can Do

Support willow tit conservation projects and surveys to identify remaining strongholds
Advocate for woodland management guidelines that protect willow tit nesting habitat
Record willow tit sightings to help map the remaining population