Irish
subspecies
Coal Tit
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Irish Coal Tits Parus ater hibernicus differ from birds of the British race P.a.britannicus and the Continental race, P.a.ater by showing a different plumage tone. Irish birds also show a larger bill, although this feature is very difficult to discern in the field. Irish Coal Tits are best recognised by the strong sulphur-yellow tones on the cheeks, breast and belly. Both British and Continental races show white cheeks and underparts. British birds lack the buffish tinge on the greyish-green upperparts as seen on the Irish race, while Continental birds show pure grey upperparts. Irish Coal Tits also tend to show buff tips to the uppertail coverts. This can give them a slight pale-rumped appearance. On British birds, this feature is much duller, while Continental birds do not have any suggestion of a paler rump.
Illustration
by Michael O'Clery
While these differences appear subtle, and variations can occur, the classic Irish race of Coal Tit is very distinctive. The Continental race is equally distinctive, and there are two records of this race, the last in 1960. Birds showing some or all of the characteristics of the British race are frequently recorded in Ireland, especially in the north east. |
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