Willow Tit vs Great Tit

In short

The Willow Tit and Great Tit can be distinguished by their head and underpart coloration. The Willow Tit has a black cap and a smaller black bib, while the Great Tit features a larger black bib and a striking yellow belly. Both species are similar in size, but the Great Tit is slightly larger and more robust.

Identification tips

1. Look for the black cap and small black bib of the Willow Tit versus the larger black bib and yellow belly of the Great Tit. 2. Observe behavior: Willow Tits may be seen excavating nesting sites, while Great Tits are more likely to be found at feeders. 3. Consider habitat: Willow Tits are more likely in damp woodlands, Great Tits in varied environments including urban areas.

Size

The Great Tit is slightly larger and more robust than the Willow Tit.

Plumage

The Willow Tit has a black cap, small black bib, and pale underparts, whereas the Great Tit has a larger black bib, a black head with a prominent white cheek patch, and bright yellow underparts.

Behaviour

The Willow Tit is known for excavating its own nesting cavities, while the Great Tit often uses artificial nest boxes and is a frequent visitor to garden feeders.

Habitat

Willow Tits prefer damp woodlands with abundant dead wood, whereas Great Tits are highly adaptable, thriving in both natural woodlands and urban areas.

Voice

The Willow Tit's calls are less variable and more subdued compared to the Great Tit, whose song is distinctive but famously variable.