Old Lodge Ashdown Forest April 20th 2013

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What started out to be a fairly quiet visit.... suddenly turned into one of the bets visits to this nature reserve. From the moment the Red Kite was spotted there were several opportunities to get some good photos...

Chiffchaff

Cuckoo

Red Kite

Male Common Redstart

Robin (I love that a Robin will usually come over to see who you are 

and announce that this is his or her territory.

Although some Holly.. Robins are not just for Christmas!

This photo shows the Robin a little 'spooked' as it spotted a larger bird flying overhead - 

(although it was only a pigeon - it could have been a predator)

Willow Warbler - not to be confused with a Chiffchaff

Redstart

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Redstart

 Redstart (female) Ashdown Forest 13th May, 2012

Nikon D300S 500mm

Overview

Redstarts are immediately identifiable by their bright orange-red tails, which they often quiver. Breeding males look smart, with slate grey upper parts, black faces and wings, and an orange rump and chest. Females and young are duller. Redstarts 'bob' in a very robin-like manner, but spend little time at ground level. It is included on the Amber List as species with unfavourable conservation status in Europe where it is declining.

Where to see them

Mainly found in the north and west of the UK, with the greatest concentrations in Wales. Particularly likes oak woodlands, also hedgerows, alongside streams and parkland. On passage in is best looked for in coastal scrub, thickets and woodland.

When to see them

April to September

What they eat

Mainly insects; also spiders, worms and berries.