Romania #1840 (1966) – Common Redstart (Phoenicurus phoenicurus)

Description

Romania #1840 (1966) – Common Redstart (Phoenicurus phoenicurus)

The Common Redstart (Phoenicurus phoenicurus) is a small and colorful songbird belonging to the family Muscicapidae, which includes flycatchers and chats. Here’s some information about the Common Redstart:

1. Distribution: Common Redstarts are found across Europe, Central Asia, and parts of North Africa. They are migratory birds, spending their summers in Europe and their winters in sub-Saharan Africa.
2. Physical Description: Adult male Common Redstarts are known for their striking plumage. They have a bright orange-red tail, which gives them their name. Their upperparts are gray, and they have a white belly with a black face mask. The females and juveniles have more subdued plumage, often with less red in the tail.
3. Habitat: Common Redstarts are typically found in open woodlands, parks, gardens, and other areas with a mix of trees and open spaces. They prefer nesting in tree holes or crevices.
4. Behavior: These birds are known for their active behavior, often seen perched in prominent positions, making sallies to catch insects in the air or foraging on the ground. They are territorial during the breeding season and sing to establish their territory.
5. Diet: Their diet primarily consists of insects, including flies, ants, beetles, and caterpillars. They may also feed on berries and other fruits when insects are less abundant.
6. Breeding: Common Redstarts build cup-shaped nests in tree holes, crevices, or man-made structures. The female typically lays a clutch of 5-7 eggs, and both parents are involved in incubating the eggs and feeding the chicks.
7. Migratory Behavior: These birds are long-distance migrants. They spend the summer in their breeding grounds in Europe and then migrate to Africa for the winter. Their migration routes can span thousands of kilometers.
8. Conservation: The Common Redstart is generally considered a species of “Least Concern” in terms of conservation status. However, like many migratory birds, they can face various threats during their migration, including habitat loss and obstacles such as buildings and communication towers. Conservation efforts often focus on preserving suitable breeding and wintering habitats and addressing these migration threats.

Common Redstarts are known for their striking appearance and lively behavior during the breeding season. They are a favorite subject for birdwatchers and photographers in Europe and an indicator species for healthy woodlands and ecosystems.