Scruffy blue tit

This adorably scruffy blue tit has been visiting our window feeder for a few weeks and we eventually got some half decent photos. Is there a reason for this wee chap being so distinctive looking?

  • It could be that it is feeding young in a nest so it will be kept fairly busy. Some birds like Blue Tits catch natural food such as catipillars to feed to the young and use feeders food for topping up themselves.
  • Had a very scruffy woodpigeon visit the garden for several days. I think it got some kind contaminant on its feathers which meant they were not being kept in good condition. Could be the same for the bluetit or just wear and tear from trying to keep the young fed
  • WalkdenSteve said:
    Had a very scruffy woodpigeon visit the garden for several days. I think it got some kind contaminant on its feathers which meant they were not being kept in good condition. Could be the same for the bluetit or just wear and tear from trying to keep the young fed

    Pete's reply will be typical for a great many birds during the breeding season.

    They spend and devote a lot of time and energy to feeding and rearing their young and neglect themselves, but not to the point of near death, mainly from a cosmetic perspective