21 NOVEMBER 1952, Page 32

Bearded Tits

SIR,—I am sure that all ornithologists will be delighted—if somewhat surprised—to learn that an abundance of bearded tits is to be seen close to the door, of Mr. Ian Niall's cottage. Though it is frequently referred to as a "tit," this bird's proper name is bearded reedling, and it is generally believed to be extremely rare. As Mr. Niall's cottage is said to be on the side of a hill covered by fir-trees, it sounds a curious place in which to expect one—let alone an abundance—of these birds. If Mr. Niall is quite sure of his.facts, would he be kind enough to give someone like myself (who can be trusted not to disclose the locality) an opportunity of seeing this interesting spectacle ?—