Penduline Tits - and then there were two?

21st - 22nd March 2015 - Topsham

They may be reduced in number, but the Penduline Tits at Dart's Farm Pools are still holding well-attended daily performances. Every time I drop in there must be at least ten other people present - birders, curious non-birders and photographers. Since the birds have been regular at the site since January, and allowing for repeats, I estimate a minimum of 2000 visits (it could easily be twice that number). Dart's Farm must be loving this - it can't be doing their trade any harm and has anyone thought of tapping them for some sponsorship?

Meanwhile, I did take a few more photos - compare these with my first efforts from the Recreation Ground back in December. First the male.

Penduline Tit male - 22/3/2015 Dart's Farm, Topsham

Penduline Tit male - 22/3/2015 Dart's Farm, Topsham

The black mask is fairly broad and extends well on to the forehead, the greyish crown and nape contrasts with the rich dark chestnut of the lower mantle, there are a few reddish brown feathers appearing on the breast. There are signs of an ongoing head and body moult, and the second tertial on the right and the first and second on the left are dropped. The pointed black centres to the central tail feathers are a good sign of a second calendar year bird. I guess an adult would also show a broader mask, more extensive chestnut on the mantle and more obvious rufous flecking on the breast. As well as an occasional call, I heard a few short, quiet phrases of song.

The other bird showed rather less well, though no complaints; it would appear to be a female, also a second calendar year.

Penduline Tit female - 21/3/2015 Dart's Farm, Topsham

Penduline Tit female - 21/3/2015 Dart's Farm, Topsham

The mask is slightly narrower and doesn't spread much on to the forehead or above the eyes. The most significant feature is the mantle, a pale reddish brown contrasting only slightly with the brownish nape and crown. As in the male, the pointed black centres to the central tail feathers indicate a second year/first spring bird.