Over 50,000 black tits in Friesland: record observation alarms ornithologists!

Over 50,000 black tits in Friesland: record observation alarms ornithologists!

On the weekend of October 18th and 19th, 2025, bird watching in the Netherlands experienced a real record. Over 50,000 long-distancePlump titswere counted on Vlieland in Friesland alone, while the counters' estimate suggests that many more flew through the area. This impressive event beats the old record high of 11,000 black tits recorded in Westenschouwen (Zeeland) on October 28, 2021. The observations were not limited to Vlieland - similar numbers were also recorded on Texel in North Holland and Ameland in Friesland, where several hundred thousand black tits were believed to be roaming the northern coastal area.

Current sightings show thousands of Black-tailed Tits that continue to be observed in Westenschouwen. The origin of these birds is equally exciting: large numbers were spotted in Estonia in September, where a national record of 32,000 birds was reached. In the Netherlands, 15 of almost 2,500 black-tailed tits were recorded, coming from countries such as Lithuania, Russia, Germany, France and Belgium. It is likely that most black tits come from Western Russia and the Baltic States.

Causes of invasion

Birds often take the long route to fly to new areas, and there are reasons for this. This year in particular, there were challenges in the breeding areas of the Baltic States and western Russia, leading to food shortages and prompting the birds to migrate to the Netherlands. Another surprising phenomenon is that the black tits are known for not being the best fliers. They often move from tree to tree and do not rely on flying over long distances. The North Sea also acts as a natural barrier for the birds, which explains the rapid increase in Holland.

In recent years there have been repeated invasions of black tits. The last notable one was in 2021. These crossings could continue to increase in the future as mild winters and dry summers have a positive impact on the birds' chances of survival and breeding. A strong increase is also supported by the flexible flight direction, which was found to be both north and south. So the invasion of 2025 appears to be the result of several factors.

Research on bird migration

Bird migration is an exciting field of research that has been studied at the Swiss Ornithological Institute for over 50 years. Both fundamental and applied questions about bird movement are researched here, using, among other things, radar and newer technologies such as light level loggers. While most birds migrate at night and are often difficult to observe, scientists are using creative methods to gather information about these animals' habits.

A detailed understanding of migration can help to better understand the patterns and challenges birds face as the seasons change. The birds themselves, caring not only for their brood but also for where they find food, are a central part of these environmental studies that demonstrate the importance of connecting with nature and recognizing one's role in the grand order of life.

This connection could also play a role in our daily lives. As the philosophy of Taoism suggests by emphasizing harmony with the natural order, we can learn from nature to live a balanced and simple life. In times of hectic and stressful times, observing animals like the black tits offers us an opportunity to become quiet and recognize what is important.