Blue tits rank among the most familiar and beloved visitors to gardens across the United Kingdom. Instantly recognisable by their striking blue and yellow plumage and distinctive trilling call, they are firm favourites with gardeners everywhere. With their breeding season commencing in mid-April, spring is an ideal time to lend them a helping hand.
A Simple, Cost-Free Attraction
I have recently succeeded in attracting a regular group of blue tits to my own garden, and remarkably, it did not cost me a penny. While expensive feeders or fancy nesting boxes can certainly assist, that is not what proved effective for me. All I did was provide fresh water for the birds to use, and the blue tits took to it most enthusiastically.
Birds require water daily, not only for drinking but also for bathing. Keeping their feathers clean is vital for insulation and flight, and it also helps them stay cool during warmer spells.
Rapid Results
Within just a few days of setting out fresh water in a shallow bird bath, blue tits began arriving each morning in pairs or trios, eagerly making use of it. These days, they are rarely away from the garden for long. In fact, I have since added nesting boxes and food to encourage their return.
Occasionally, other birds drop by as well, such as pigeons, but blue tits are by far the most frequent visitors. I have even spotted a few robins, which is unusual for my garden, as they typically only appear in winter.
Feeding and Planting Tips
If you are considering providing food, blue tits are particularly fond of suet balls and suet pellets. However, it is equally important to offer water if you have feeders out, so the birds do not need to travel far. Cultivating specific plants and foliage in your garden can also attract a variety of birds, including robins and blue tits. Dense shrubs such as juneberry are especially effective, offering birds shelter from the elements while also producing fruit they can consume.
