Spotted Flycatchers are medium-sized songbirds of open woodland, parks and gardens. They have a relatively long tail which is often flicked while they sit patiently on a perch waiting for a chance to fly out to catch their insect-prey mid-air. During the breeding season, they can be seen across the UK, but leave here in August for their wintering grounds in tropical Africa. Passage migrants can be seen in September.
The Spotted Flycatcher has suffered dramatic declines recently. To help protect our breeding birds, The Wildlife Trusts are working closely with farmers, landowners and developers to promote wildlife-friendly practices. We are working towards a 'Living Landscape': a network of habitats and wildlife corridors across town and country, which are good for both wildlife and people. You can support this greener vision for the future by joining your local Wildlife Trust.
