Spotted Flycatcher
Scientific Name: Muscicapa striataMaltese Name: Huttafa
Family: Old World Flycatchers (Muscicapidae)
Occurence: Very Common migrant
Breeds in Malta: Yes
Breeding Frequency: Regular but Localized
Overview:
The Spotted Flycatcher is a clear case of a basic species with basically dull, brown plumage, yet a really distinctive and individual appeal. It gets its name from the streaks on its best, present in all plumages. Its a very lively and active bird, always fluttering about and returning to its same post every time it flies off. It is large-eyed and is always on the lookout for insects it may catch. It nests in wooded areas, prefering pine trees. These birds are not at all shy and tend to build their nests in public gardens or cemeteries where people are constantly strolling by. Their nest is a neat cup built from pine needles and lichens and is usually built quite high up in a tree.
Status and Distribution:
The Spotted Flycatcher is a very common migrant, commoner in Spring than in Autumn. Large influxes of this bird occur each year, with as many as 400 individuals counted in a day from one locality. As a breeder it is quite scarce, with a few pairs breeding in Malta and Gozo. Used to be a much rarer breeder in the past but lately it has become an annual breeder in certain localities and new breeding sites are being discovered each year. Largest breeding population with up to 8 pairs is Buskett Gardens.
When to See:
Autumn (August-Oct) and in Spring (April-May). Breeding birds present also in summer.
Where to See:
May be seen anywhere provided there are trees or bushes.
Photographs:
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Adult Spotted Flycatcher, Comino |
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| Adult Spotted Flycatcher, Buskett Gardens. | Nest of Spotted Flycatcher with 3 eggs, Buskett Gardens. |
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| Spotted Flycatcher incubating in its nest, Buskett Gardens. | Fledged young of Spotted Flycatcher, Buskett Gardens. |
Listen to Spotted Flycatcher:
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