The frequency and timing (in relation to season and time of day) of co
pulations were studied in the Willow Tit Parus montanus. We monitored
124 pairs in four years. Copulations were solicited by both sexes and
they occurred both in the suspected fertile and non-fertile periods of
the females. Similarly, there was no significant decline in the copul
ation frequency after the laying period started. The frequencies of co
pulations and copulation attempts were estimated as 0.37-0.52/h/pair a
nd 0.21-0.43/h/pair, respectively. Copulations occurred from 03:42-11:
00 hours, but they peaked early in the morning. No copulations were se
en in the afternoon. The results imply that, like in many other territ
orial species, the copulation frequency of the Willow Tit is relativel
y low and thus, probably not influenced by sperm competition. Other fu
nctions of copulations (in addition to fertilization) and the reasons
for early morning copulation peak are discussed.