ExploreBirds

Black Redstart

Phoenicurus ochruros

The Black Redstart is a small, lively bird with a beautiful gray body and a bright orange tail. It loves to hop around gardens and parks, singing cheerful songs that make the world feel happy.

Habitat: Urban areas

Appearance

The Black Redstart has a distinctive sooty grey body for males, while females are duller brown. Both sexes display a striking, constantly quivering orange-red tail. This vibrant tail contrasts with their dark plumage, making them easily identifiable.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderPasseriformesFamilyMuscicapidaeGenusPhoenicurus
Black Redstart
feathered trait badgesocial trait badgesinging trait badgeinsectivorous trait badge
Black Redstart

Category

Birds

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Black Redstarts were among the first birds to return to bombed cities, earning them the nickname 'phoenix bird'!

Male Black Redstarts sing a scratchy song that often includes mimicry of other birds or even human sounds!

Their scientific name, 'ochruros', means 'red tail', celebrating their most striking feature!

They often choose surprising nesting spots, like abandoned machinery, old walls, or even window boxes!

Special abilities

Ability

Tail Flash Signal

Black Redstarts have a brightly coloured, constantly quivering tail that helps them communicate and possibly distract predators.

Ability

Urban Nest Builder

Black Redstarts can build nests in human-made structures, like buildings and ruins, helping them thrive in cities.

Ability

Agile Insect Hunter

Black Redstarts can expertly catch insects in mid-air or snatch them from surfaces, thanks to their quick flight and sharp eyes.

Measurements & details

Length
13-15 cm
Wingspan
23-27 cm
Weight
0.014-0.019 kg
Lifespan
2-5 years
Top Speed
60 km/h
Clutch Size
4-6
Incubation
12-14 days
Migration Distance
2000 km

Diet & Feeding

These clever birds love to snack on insects and spiders, but enjoy berries and seeds too!

Primary Foods

  • Insects
  • Spiders
  • Berries
  • Small Fruits
  • Seeds

Foraging Method

  • Foraging

Ecological connections

eaten by

Domestic Cat

Felis catus

Often preyed upon in urban environments.

eaten by

Eurasian Sparrowhawk

Accipiter nisus

A common raptor predator across its range.

hunts

Garden Spider

Araneus diadematus

Eats various invertebrates like spiders.

hunts

European Earwig

Forficula auricularia

Preys on insects found on walls and ground.

depends on

European Rowan

Sorbus aucuparia

Eats its berries, especially in autumn and winter.

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Enjoy watching birds from a distance and be quiet so you don't scare them away.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Black Redstart?

13-15 cm

What is Black Redstart's wingspan?

23-27 cm

How much does Black Redstart weigh?

0.014-0.019 kg

How long does Black Redstart live?

2-5 years

How fast can Black Redstart move?

60 km/h

What does Black Redstart eat?

These clever birds love to snack on insects and spiders, but enjoy berries and seeds too!

Where is Black Redstart usually found?

Urban areas

How does Black Redstart hunt?

Foraging

Snap Map

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Where to spot

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