Also known as Bearded Reedling, this brown, long-tailed bird, usually seen flying rapidly across the top of a reedbed., is more closely related to the larks but is grouped with the tits due to its superficial resemblance. Males have black 'moustaches' rather than 'beards'. They are sociable and noisy , their metallic 'ping' calls often being the first clue to their presence. They are particularly vulnerable to severe winters and their population has declined in recent years, making them an Amber List species.
Key ID Features:
A small, light brown bird exclusively found among reed beds.
Adult male has a blue-grey head with bold, black 'moustache' framing a white throat.
Female's head matches light brown body and tail colouring and throat is greyish-white.
Tail is long and quite broad and small neat wings are patterned with black and white bars.
Juveniles are similar but with black patch below the nape and black tail edges.
Spends much of its time hidden at the base of reed stems feeding on insects but easiest seen on calm autumn and winter days when its diet switches to seeds from the reed heads. At this time it will also seek small pieces of grit from paths to help grind the seeds.
Overview
Scientific name: Panurus biarmicus.
Family: Tits (Timaliidae)
Where to see them:
Found only in reedbeds. May move away from breeding areas in winter.
Seen in UK:
All year round.
What they eat
Insects, insect larvae, spiders and seeds.
Text (c) RSPB, used with permission
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Location: Farlington Marshes, Hampshire
Photographer: Tim Tapley
