Crested tit
The Crested Tit (Lophophanes cristatus) is a charming little bird with a distinctive punk hairstyle that really makes it stand out. It is both bold and fearless, which makes it especially fun to photograph. The Crested Tit is strongly associated with old-growth forests, where it finds the habitat it needs to survive. On my land, there is a patch of old-growth forest that attracts many Crested Tits, and they thrive here among the older spruces and pines, as well as the dead wood.
Season for Photographing Crested Tit
You can photograph Crested Tits from September through the end of May. The best activity is typically from November, throughout the winter, and into early spring. If you want to capture Crested Tits in snow or frosty landscapes, January and February are recommended, though snow and frost can also occur in November, December, March, and April. November is particularly good for capturing stunning images of Crested Tits in a fall landscape with red and yellow hues.
The hide for Crested Tits is situated in an old-growth forest with a rich stand of pines and spruces. Here, the stones and ground are covered with moss, and in some areas, there is also beard lichen. This is an ideal area for photographing Crested Tits. Additionally, the sunsets filter through the treetops, creating magical light for evening photography. You will also be able to get very close to the Crested Tits due to their fearless nature.
In the old-growth forest, it is quite dark in the mornings and evenings. Therefore, I have installed lighting outside the hide to serve as fill light for the Crested Tit’s plumage. The Crested Tit is a very frequent visitor to the hide. For good photos, one session is usually sufficient, but if you want different weather conditions and varied situational shots, it may be beneficial to book two sessions.
Camera & Lenses
When you’re in my photography hides, you can get really close to all the woodland birds, including the Crested Tit. I recommend using a 300-400 mm lens for portraits.
Times for Crested Tit
Depending on the activity of the raptors, you should enter the hide about half an hour before sunrise and stay as long as you wish in the hide.