We regularly visit the RSPB reserve at Loch Garten. Nestled deep within the ancient Caledonian pine trees of Abernethy Forst this is where, in 1959, Ospreys first returned in Scotland and a pair has nested here since. Although popular with Ospreys, Abernethy is also home a wide variety of other less common birds. Capercaillie can be seen performing their annual "lek" in the spring and is one of the few places where the Crested Tit can be found. More common birds such as the siskin, chaffinch and great spotted woodpecker can be regularly seen along with many friendly coal tits.
Remarkably friendly, with patience the Coal Tits at Loch Garten with take food from your hand
One of the smaller members of the tit family measuring 10 - 11.5cm the coal tit has the questionable honour of having the highest number of bird flea reported from a single nest - 5,754 fleas.
During colder months they will regularly form larger flocks with other coal tits in search of food. Favouring peanuts the will often take and store food for eating later.
