I am quite fortunate to have Calke Park on my doorstep, a National Trust Park that holds some excellent ancient woodland and is a good stronghold for Marsh Tit. Personally I think it is probably one of the best places in Derbyshire to view this species. Marsh Tit is described in the “Birds of Derbyshire” as a common breeding bird but in my experience it seems to be fast becoming far from common in the county. The highest densities occur in the ancient woodlands in south Derbyshire and the Ash woodlands of the Derbyshire Dales. I recently spent a morning photographing this species in Calke Park and at least 6 or 7 birds were regularly visiting a feeding station that has been set-up in an area of woodland slightly off the beaten track. Also present were a few Nuthatch, good numbers of Great Tit and Blue Tit and a pair of Reed Bunting, along with other common woodland birds. As winter sets-in the numbers of birds visiting the feeding station will increase dramatically.
Marsh Tit – above 4 images – Tony Davison©
Nuthatch – above 2 images – Tony Davison©
Great Tit – above 4 images – Tony Davison©
Coal Tit – Tony Davison©
Blue Tit – Tony Davison©
Robin – above 3 images – Tony Davison©
Reed Bunting – Probably a 1st winter male – Tony Davison©
