Distribution of the species
Common resident in Paggaio. The local breeding population is smaller than the 2% of the national population (estimated at 850,000–1,120,000 pairs). The conservation status of the local population, which is not isolated within its wider distribution range, is considered excellent. Although it is a typical species of deciduous forests in the study area, it is found even at the lowest altitudes, in agroforestry ecosystems or even in places with tree vegetation within the settlements of the area.
Description of the species (biological and ecological features)
Small tit, locally very common, although less common than the great tit. Beautiful, with yellow underparts with gray-black central stripe, bluish upperparts and black eye stripe. The small blue hat on top of the small and round white head adds to its charm. It is famous for its acrobatic skills. It climbs up and down tree trunks like a treecreeper and hangs upside down at the edge of thin branches in search of food. Very useful for agriculture as it consumes huge amounts of harmful insects. Clever bird, like the great tit. It also transfers its knowledge to other tits.
Resident in the area. A forest species, lives mainly in deciduous forests. It is also common in urban parks and gardens, especially in winter. It nests mainly in tree holes, but also in artificial nests (wooden boxes) and wherever there is a suitable entrance, such as walls, vertical rocks, mailboxes, pitchers, ventilators. It feeds on insects and spiders. Outside the breeding season it will also feed on seeds and other plant foods. It seeks its food by lifting the bark of trees, on the outer branches of trees, and rarely on the ground. In winter it forms mixed flocks mainly with other tits. When insects are scarce, it frantically tears the young buds of the trees, hoping to find an insect.
The species does not face serious threats. Its competition with the great tit can affect its population, which on an annual basis and/or locally may show fluctuations depending on its reproductive success, climatic conditions, etc.
Conservation status
Least Concern.
Conservation state
Protected under the Bern Convention (Appendix II). Listed as Least Concern in Greece and in Europe, by the Greek Red Data Book and the IUCN correspondingly. Not included in a SPEC category (European species of conservation concern) by BirdLife International.