Wildlife

Wild Willow Tit Decline and Welfare

Willow tits are one of the UK's most rapidly declining resident birds, with welfare implications from habitat loss and competitive exclusion.

Key Facts

UK willow tit populations have declined by over 90% since 1970
Willow tits excavate their own nest cavities in rotting wood, unable to use standard nest boxes
Competitive exclusion by blue tits and great tits reduces willow tit access to food and nest sites
Wet woodland edge habitat with willows, alder, and damp areas is essential
Some reserves have installed specialist willow tit nest boxes with success

Welfare Considerations

Willow tit welfare depends on structurally complex wet woodland with rotting wood for excavation. Loss of these habitats eliminates both nest sites and food resources. Specialist nest boxes and habitat management at reserves create pockets of suitable habitat where individual willow tit welfare can be maintained.

What You Can Do

Support Wildlife Trusts managing wet woodland for willow tits
Donate to organisations installing specialist willow tit nest boxes
Advocate for wet woodland creation in agri-environment and planning policy