The situation of forest tits in Finland is critical, with significant population declines, and current forestry practices are insufficient for their conservation without additional voluntary efforts from forest owners.
The population of forest tits in Finland, specifically the willow tit and crested tit, has drastically fallen, with declines of 68% and 41% respectively since the 2000s. A recent compilation of studies by forestry engineer Kristiina Sillanpää indicates that existing forest management practices are inadequate for the conservation of these bird species. Despite the guidance provided by Finland's forest law, management recommendations, and certification, these measures alone do not ensure the survival of forest tits.
Jukka Ruutiainen, project manager of the Tinttimetsä project at the Finnish Forest Administration, emphasizes that legal requirements and certifications are not sufficient and that voluntary actions by forest owners are also necessary. These actions include practices that are not mandated by law but are crucial in addressing the conservation issues faced by these birds. The research underscores the importance of proactive measures in forest management to create suitable habitats for the forest tits.
As the critical state of forest tit populations is highlighted by Sillanpää's research, it becomes clearer that a collaborative effort from forest professionals and property owners is vital for the recovery of these species. The findings urge stakeholders in forestry to go beyond compliance and actively employ strategies that support biodiversity, stressing that the future of Finland's forest tits hangs in the balance, dependent on the willingness of forest owners to engage in conservation efforts.
