Tit birds, with their lively antics and cheerful calls, are delightful visitors to any garden. To attract these charming creatures and keep them coming back, it's essential to provide the right food and set up feeders effectively. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to offer tit birds and how to set up your feeders for optimal results.

1. Understanding Tit Birds’ Dietary Needs

Tit birds, such as great tits, blue tits, and coal tits, are insectivores and granivores. Their diet consists mainly of insects, seeds, and berries. During the winter months, their natural food sources can be scarce, so providing supplementary feeding is crucial. To cater to their nutritional needs, consider offering a variety of foods:
  • Suet: High in energy and fat, suet is a great winter food for tit birds. It helps them maintain their energy levels in cold weather. Choose suet cakes or blocks that are specifically formulated for garden birds.
  • Peanuts: Offer unsalted, shelled peanuts to tit birds. Peanuts provide essential proteins and fats. Ensure that peanuts are chopped or crushed to prevent choking hazards, especially for younger birds.
  • Sunflower Seeds: These are a favourite among tit birds. Black oil sunflower seeds, in particular, are high in oil and easy for tit birds to handle.
  • Mixed Seeds: A good mix of seeds can attract various garden birds, including tit birds. Look for blends that include sunflower hearts, millet, and Nyjer seeds.

2. Setting Up Feeders for Tit Birds

The right setup can make all the difference in attracting and feeding tit birds. Here’s how to create an inviting feeding station:
  • Choose the Right Feeders: Tit birds are agile and can use a variety of feeders. Tube feeders with perches or mesh feeders work well. For suet, use suet cages or feeders designed specifically for this type of food.
  • Location Matters: Place feeders in a quiet, sheltered area where tit birds feel safe. Ideally, position feeders near shrubs or trees that provide cover from predators. Avoid placing them in areas with heavy foot traffic or direct sunlight.
  • Height and Accessibility: Mount feeders at a height that is easily accessible for tit birds but out of reach of predators like cats. A height of about 4 to 6 feet is generally suitable.
  • Clean Regularly: Regular cleaning of feeders is essential to prevent the spread of diseases. Wash feeders with hot, soapy water and let them dry completely before refilling. Clean the feeding area to avoid attracting pests or causing hygiene issues.
  • Water Supply: Don’t forget to provide fresh water for drinking and bathing. Tit birds need water to stay hydrated and clean their feathers. Use a shallow birdbath or a water dish that’s easy for small birds to access.

3. Additional Tips for Attracting Tit Birds

  • Use a Variety of Foods: Offering a mix of foods can attract a wider range of garden birds, including tit birds. Experiment with different types of seeds and suet to see what your local birds prefer.
  • Consider Nesting Boxes: Providing nesting boxes can encourage tit birds to visit your garden more frequently. Ensure the boxes are well-maintained and placed in a safe location.
  • Monitor and Adjust: Pay attention to which foods and feeders are most popular with tit birds. Adjust your feeding strategy based on their preferences and the time of year.

4. Common Problems and Solutions

  • Squirrels and Other Pests: If you have issues with squirrels or other pests, consider using squirrel-proof feeders or placing feeders in locations that are difficult for them to access.
  • Feeding Disorders: If you notice a decrease in bird activity or signs of feeding disorders, check for moldy or spoiled food in the feeders and replace it immediately.

Conclusion

Providing the right food and setting up your feeders correctly can greatly enhance the experience of attracting tit birds to your garden. With proper care and attention, your garden can become a haven for tit birds and other garden birds in UK. By offering a variety of nutritious foods and ensuring a safe, clean feeding environment, you’ll create a welcoming space for these delightful garden visitors.