Romania #1842 (1966) – White-spotted Bluethroat (Luscinia svecica cyanicula)

Description

Romania #1842 (1966) – White-spotted Bluethroat (Luscinia svecica cyanicula)

The White-spotted Bluethroat (Luscinia svecica cyanecula) is a subspecies of the Bluethroat (Luscinia svecica), a small and colorful passerine bird. Bluethroats are known for the striking blue and orange markings on the throats of the males. Here’s some information about the White-spotted Bluethroat:

1. Distribution: The White-spotted Bluethroat is found in parts of northern Eurasia. Its range extends from Scandinavia and northern Europe to western Russia and Siberia. It is a migratory bird, wintering in southern Asia.
2. Physical Description: Male White-spotted Bluethroats are characterized by their bright blue throats with a central white spot, surrounded by a band of orange-red. The rest of their plumage is brownish-grey. Females and juveniles have a less vibrant appearance, with more subdued colors and less prominent throat markings.
3. Habitat: These birds are often found in wetland habitats, including marshes, reedbeds, and areas with tall grasses. They are typically associated with areas near water.
4. Behavior: White-spotted Bluethroats are known for their melodious songs and their habit of perching on exposed branches or reeds, where they can be seen singing. They are highly territorial and use their songs to establish and defend their breeding territories.
5. Diet: Their diet primarily consists of insects, spiders, and small invertebrates. They forage on the ground or among vegetation to capture their prey.
6. Breeding: These birds build cup-shaped nests in dense vegetation near water. The female typically lays a clutch of 5-7 eggs, which she incubates. Both parents are involved in feeding the young birds.
7. Migratory Behavior: White-spotted Bluethroats are migratory birds. They spend the summer in their breeding grounds in northern Eurasia and then migrate to their wintering grounds in southern Asia. Their migration routes can be extensive.
8. Conservation: The White-spotted Bluethroat, as a subspecies, is not globally threatened. However, the status of bird populations can vary within their range due to factors such as habitat loss and degradation. Conservation efforts often focus on protecting and restoring wetland habitats that these birds depend on during their breeding and wintering seasons.

The White-spotted Bluethroat is a captivating bird, known for its vibrant throat colors and sweet songs. It is a prized find for birdwatchers in its breeding areas and during migration.