Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat
Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.
Common redstart
Scientific name: Phoenicurus phoenicurus
IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: MUSCICAPIDAE
Group: Birds
Shyness: Very shy
Safe distance: 10 m
Breeding season / Courtship: 01.04-31.07
Gestation: 12–14 jours
Births: 12–13 jours
Habitat:
Mixed woodlands, edges, parks and gardens
Description:
The common redstart is a small passerine of 12–14 cm with bluish-grey upperparts and bright orange underparts, featuring a white forehead and black facial mask. It inhabits mixed woodlands, edges, parks and gardens, feeding mainly on insects caught on the wing and on the ground. During breeding, males sing from low perches to attract females and defend territories.
Recommended lens:
>=300 mm
Photography tips:
Position yourself discreetly along woodland paths or near hedgerows, and wait for the male to sing perched on a low branch. Photograph early morning when song is most intense, from a slight low angle to isolate its profile and capture the white forehead.
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