Out and about on Radipole last week we were fortunate to come across this beautifully formed, purse-like Long-tailed tit ('lottie') nest nearing completion. Constructed principally from moss and lichen, bound together with cobwebs and then lined with a bed of feathers, the 'lottie' nest provides a snug refuge to raise their chicks. The nest was a hive of industry with both birds actively tending to the construction and we will watch their progress with interest.
The moss and lichen that makes up the bulk of the building materials can clearly be seen, as can the tiny entrance at the top partially covered by a bramble leaf.
A long-tailed tit carrying insects for their hungry offspring is a familiar sight in spring which is no surprise given that they lay 8-12 eggs in a clutch!
With a whole lottie lunch! Photo John Bridges (RSPB Images).
And in a few weeks time keep your eye out for the lunch queue.
Long-tailed tit fledglings Lodmoor May 2009... quite cute really. (Steve Bennett 2009).