Wildlife

Marsh Tit Welfare in Ancient Broadleaved Woodland 2026

The marsh tit is declining in the UK with welfare closely linked to the quality of ancient broadleaved woodland managed for structural diversity.

Key Facts

Marsh tit populations declined approximately 50% in the UK since the 1970s
They are confined to ancient broadleaved woodland, particularly in England and Wales
Unlike their name suggests, marsh tits do not inhabit marshes but ancient woodland
They require a diverse woodland structure with both canopy and shrub layers
Climate change may be affecting their food availability and breeding timing

Welfare Considerations

Marsh tit welfare depends on access to ancient woodland with structural diversity including dense shrub layer for nesting and foraging. Woodland management that removes the shrub layer or simplifies structure eliminates essential habitat components. Their food caching behaviour requires a variety of bark surfaces and crevices. Competition with blue and great tits for food and nest sites can affect welfare in simplified woodlands.

What You Can Do

Support ancient woodland management that maintains structural diversity
Advocate for deadwood and shrub layer retention in woodland management plans
Participate in BTO woodland bird surveys that monitor marsh tit populations
Report marsh tit sightings to county bird recording groups
Support woodland ancient woodland protection and expansion