Treecreeper

Lifespan

8–9 years in the wild

Size & Weight

12–13 cm, wingspan 17–20 cm; 7–12 g

Habitat

Woodlands, copses, parks and gardens with mature trees, particularly those with rough bark such as oak and pine.

UK Distribution

Found throughout England, Wales and Scotland south of the Highlands; resident year-round with some populations supplemented by continental visitors in winter.

Diet

Insects and spiders gleaned from tree bark, including small beetles, earwigs, aphids, and insect larvae; occasionally takes seeds and plant matter.

Prey

Small invertebrates including beetles, lacewings, pseudoscorpions, spiders, and insect eggs

Predators

Sparrowhawks, other raptors, and occasionally domestic cats; eggs and nestlings vulnerable to woodpeckers and other nest predators.

Mating Season

March to June

Breeding

Clutch size 6–8 eggs; incubation period 14–15 days; fledging at 15–17 days; typically one or two broods per season.

Behaviour

Things With Wings

Species Profile

Sources and editorial status