Marsh Tits are now only found in one known area of Scotland, and are considered one of the country’s rarest breeding birds at just three known pairs. The species has been Red-listed in the UK since 2022.

The discovery of this small population of the birds in southern Scotland, back in 2023, provides us with a rare and exciting opportunity to protect and conserve this species which has dwindled to extinction in other areas of the country.

How you can help

The Scottish Marsh Tit Project is run by a small group of SOC members across Scotland. They are looking for more volunteers to assist in the conservation of the species via a number of ways, including:

  • Casual monitoring of prospective breeding habitats
  • Breeding surveying
  • Planning and development monitoring
  • Conservation coordination
  • Community liaison
  • Media communications
  • Habitat monitoring

Some of these roles can be carried out remotely and so it's not a requirement for volunteers to be based in south Scotland, neither do you need to be familiar with Marsh Tits. The group are looking for your enthusiasm to make a difference, rather than your experience of the species.

Online Information Evening

Join the Project team on Zoom to hear more about the species in question, the work that's been carried out so far and the ways in which you might be able to assist.

The Project's goal is to work with relevant organisations and bodies to create a conservation strategy for Marsh Tits in Scotland. Anyone with an interest in the birds, and/or the project, is very welcome to join the meeting- it's open to all.

If you’d like to attend, please email Jane at development@the-soc.org.uk for the Zoom joining link.

If you can't make it on the night and would like to express an interest in one of the volunteer roles outlined above, or to find out more about the project, please contact Alasdair Reid at alasdairreid@hotmail.co.uk with a brief description of your experience/skill set and how you think you might be able to help (if applicable).

Thank you for any support you might be able to offer.

Marsh Tit images © Peter Stronach