2011-08-19 15:09
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Scientific Name:
Ficedula hypoleuca
The pied flycatcher is a small, black and white fly-catching bird. It is a summer visitor from April and May onwards and breeds mainly in western areas, spending the winter in West Africa. They are birds of mature deciduous woodlands, parks and gardens, with a preference for oak trees.
How to identify:
Pied flycatchers are slightly smaller than a house sparrow. Males have mostly black upperparts and white underparts with a bold white patch on the folded wing. Females have the same basic patterning but are browner in colour.
Where to find it:
In woodland, orchards and larger parks and gardens across the UK, especially in western areas.
How people can help:
The Wildlife Trusts manage many woodland habitats sympathetically for the benefit of all kinds of wildlife, including flycatchers. Careful tree and coppice management and the installation of nest boxes in suitable locations are just some of the ways that their habitat is kept in good condition. By volunteering for your local Trust you can help too and you'll make new friends and learn new skills along the way.
Statistics:
Length - 13cm Winglength - 21.5-24cm
Conservation status:
Amber listed because of recent declines
Did you know?:
Pied flycatchers time their spring migration so that they arrive just in time to feast on recently emerged caterpillars in spring woodlands. European research suggests that climate change may have triggered the decline in Pied Flycatchers by advancing the period of peak food availability, the birds being unable to compensate by breeding early enough in the year.
Seasons:
Spring
Summer
Image:
