A somewhat unusual sighting has been reported of a male Black Redstart (Phoenicurus ochruros) in its 1st summer plumage. Craig Reed has observed and photographed this individual feeding around St George’s Farm on 9th June. The Black Redstart had been singing enthusiastically, enabling Craig to confirm its identity, age and sex.

As Craig notes, this individual was observed feeding in the woodyard at the farm, alongside Common Redstart and Spotted Flycatchers which in itself is quite unusual.

Black Redstart ♂

(Phoenicurus ochruros)

1st summer plumage

Photograph by – Craig Reed