Red-breasted Flycatcher
Scientific Name: Ficedula parvaMaltese Name: Zanzarell Zghir
Family: Flycatchers (Muscicapidae)
Occurence: Scarce
Breeds in Malta: No
Overview:
The Red-breasted Flycatcher is a small passerine bird which breeds in eastern Europe and across central Asia. It is migratory, wintering in south Asia. The breeding male of this small flycatcher is mainly brown above and white below, with a grey head and orange throat. The bill is black and has the broad but pointed shape typical of aerial insectivores. As well as taking insects in flight, this species hunts caterpillars amongst foliage, and will take berries. The base of the outertail feather is white and the tail is often flicked upwards as they perch looking out for insect prey. Non-breeding males, females and juveniles have brown heads and lack the throat collar. They are found mainly deciduous woodlands, especially near water. They build an open nest in a tree hole or similar recess.
Status:
Scarce Autumn Migrant with a few singles recorded each year from different locations. In Malta mostly 1st year birds are seen as it is very rare in Spring.
When to See:
From September till Novemeber.
Where to See:
Prefers open woodland and valleys. Comino, Buskett, Ghadira and Simar Nature Reserves are favoured spots for this species in October/November.
Photographs:
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1st Year Red-breasted Flycatcher, 26th October 2007, Comino |
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| 1st Year Red-breasted Flycatcher, 26th October 2007, Comino | 1st Year Red-breasted Flycatcher, 11th October 2008, Ghadira Nature Reserve |
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