Black Redstarts

[FUDGEY]

I remember years ago seeing a programme on TV on this bird. I'm sure they were very rare & were found in the London area. Does anyone know how they are doing now? I have never heard any mention of them since then, I hope they are still in the UK.

[bob.phillips]

Not sure about the UK, but seen lots in northern spain.

Bob P.

[MagpieMick]

In London at East India Dock Basin and Crossness LNR ...

And regular at Dungeness around the power station .

[Picidae]

A few breeding pairs on several of my local patches. They favor concrete constructions for some reason - hence the colonisation of the bombed sites of London during postwar Britain.

They're a breeding bird that follow truly the socio-economic divides! Much of inner London and urban areas of the SE where they were traditionally holding on well following the colonisation in the bombed out sites of post-war London, has now undergone so much modern redevelopment much of their former breeding habitat has been radically diminished. Conversely, the N.E/Birmingham and Midlands area have become the favored breeding sites - I think they must like all those large old brick factories/mills! BR really don't like highly vegetated areas and nest in stony cavities/crevices. They like to feed on midges, so you will most likely find them near water.

In short, look for large traditional brick public buildings/factories/brownfield sites with lots of weeds and stone - - that are near the river or canal then keep your ear open for their distinctive song. (Best time early evening when they are vocal)

Otherwise, if you are near the SE coast, you may see them on passage (any time from end July through Oct/Nov). In Spring, mainly during March. You may see wintering BRs at coastal sites (Jan/Feb).

[jaykay]

I actually saw my first one this year in North Norfolk! I would have struggled to identify it had it not been for some excellent peps at NOA!