In this Leica Nature Blog, the Birds on the Edge Campaign, a National Lottery Heritage Funded project run by The North York Moors National Park Trust with the goal of preserving four at risk bird species in the area, pays homage to the Common Redstart.
Among the many captivating birds that grace our woodlands and gardens, the Redstart (Phoenicurus phoenicurus) stands out with its vibrant plumage and charming behaviour. This small passerine, with its striking colours and agile movements, has fascinated birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts for generations. The Redstart is a small, elegant bird that catches the eye with its vivid coloration. Males are particularly striking, with a bright orange-red tail, a slate-grey back, and a black face contrasted by a white forehead. The underparts are orange, blending seamlessly with the tail, giving the bird a fiery appearance. Females and juveniles are more subdued, with brownish-grey plumage and a less pronounced orange tail, but they still retain the characteristic flicking tail movements that make Redstarts easily recognizable.
Their agile flight and habit of constantly flicking their tail make the Redstart a lively and engaging sight in their natural habitats. Redstarts are insectivores, feeding primarily on a diet of insects and spiders. They are adept at catching their prey mid-air, often seen darting out from a perch to snatch flying insects in a display of agility and precision. They also forage on the ground, hopping and flitting through leaf litter in search of food.
The song of the Common Redstart is a delightful and varied series of phrases, often described as a mix of whistles and trills. Males sing from prominent perches, using their song to establish territory and attract mates. Their song is not as loud as some other woodland birds, but its rich, melodious quality makes it a true pleasure to hear during spring and early summer. Well worth learning and listening out for.
Redstarts favour open woodlands, parklands, and gardens with plenty of trees and shrubs. They are also found in mountainous regions with scattered trees and open spaces. Their breeding range extends across Europe and into Asia, while they migrate to Africa for the winter. During the breeding season, Common Redstarts prefer to nest in tree cavities or crevices, often utilising old woodpecker holes or man-made nest boxes. They line their nests with grass, moss, and feathers to create a comfortable environment for their chicks.
Redstarts are migratory birds, spending the spring and summer in the deciduous woodlands of Europe they start to migrate south in the autumn and spend the winter in Sahel area of Africa, with British birds likely spending the winter in countries such as The Gambia, Guinea, Ghana and Guinea-Bissau. They are part of a larger network of species that connect different ecosystems across continents, highlighting the importance of conserving migratory routes and habitats.
The Redstart is currently on the Amber list of birds of conservation concern, its populations can be affected by habitat loss and changes in land use. They are a focus species for the Birds on the Edge Project run by the North York Moors National Park Trust. The project aims to establish and conserve habitats for the Turtle Dove, Yellowhammer, Song Thrush, and Redstart, implement a monitoring program, and actively engage more individuals from areas like Scarborough and Bridlington to engage with the National Park and conservation. This grant, generously provided by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, will finance the four-year initiative. Its impact extends beyond the well-being of indigenous bird species; it also reaches out to a diverse audience, including both children and adults, introducing them to the wonders of nature and hands-on conservation experiences within the National Park.
There is an exhibition based around the Birds on the Edge running at Danby Lodge, North Yorkshire until Sunday 8th September, more details can be found here: www.northyorkmoors.org.uk
The Redstart, with its fiery plumage and lively behaviour, is a true gem of the woodland. Its presence adds a splash of colour and a touch of vibrancy to the habitats it inhabits. By understanding and appreciating the Redstart, we can better support conservation efforts to protect these enchanting birds and the environments they depend on. So, the next time you spot the flash of a red tail or hear the melodic song of a Common Redstart, take a moment to enjoy the brilliance and vitality of this remarkable bird.
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