Birds in Lincolnshire

Bearded Tit Survey 2002

Bearded Tit Census 2002 from Graham Catley

A full National census of breeding Bearded Tits takes place in 2002. This is the first National census since 1992 and looks set to show some dramatic changes in the number and distribution of the species. I am organising the Lincolnshire census and would appreciate any records of the species from now until the end of May. All past and present breeding sites are being covered but as the species can be rather elusive even records from sites that have already been surveyed may be of interest. Precise details of the location of any sightings, preferably with a Grid Reference or sketch map, the number and sex of any birds seen (if possible) and what they were doing, e.g. 'carrying food' etc. are essential. If you observe any Bearded Tits during the next ten weeks please let me know at the usual email address: gcatley@porthill.com

The Lincolnshire breeding population has been in decline for many years with only one broad breeding locality now being occupied, and the number of breeding females having fallen to just four in the last two years. So far census work in March 2002 suggests that the situation may have deteriorated, with just five birds having been found at Barton in 20+ hours of searching.

I am also interested in receiving any autumn and winter sightings away from the Barton-Barrow Haven clay pits during the last six years (1997-2001), i.e. since the Lincs Bird Report covering 1996.

Graham Catley (For more Bearded Tit photographs click here)

Attached male and female Bearded Tit Barton March 19th 2002

Bearded Tit (female) Barton March 19th 2002 © Graham Catley

Bearded Tit (male) Barton March 19th 2002 © Graham Catley

Bearded Tit (male) Barton March 19th 2002 © Graham Catley

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