Common Redstart

Habitat: Areas with scattered trees, such as parkland, gardens, cemeteries and other wooded areas with a semi-open shrub layer or herbaceous vegetation. During migration, it can be observed everywhere.

Appearance: Widespread summer visitor throughout Europe. In Belgium and the Netherlands, it is a fairly numerous breeding bird – migratory – passing through in fairly large numbers.

Breeding season: April – August, cavity nester – the nest cavity (entrance hole is 32 mm) is usually located 1 – 5 m above the ground and is partly filled by the female with straw and moss. She lines the nest with hair and feathers. Only the female breeds, 5 – 7 eggs.

Characteristics: Length 13 – 14 cm, wingspan 21 – 24 cm, weight 14 – 19 grams, age 9 years.

Food: Insects, worms and berries.