The Red-tailed Wheatear is a striking species, with males featuring a distinctive red or rufous tail, contrasting with a grey back and black wings. Females are duller with a paler rufous tail.
Where to spot
Breeds in Central Asia, including Afghanistan and parts of China. Winters extensively in Northeast Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Inhabits rocky slopes, arid plains, and semi-deserts.
How to spot
Look for it on open, stony ground with sparse vegetation. The rufous tail is its most prominent identification feature, especially when it flies or fans its tail. Listen for its varied song.
When to spot
Breeds in spring/summer. Migrates south from autumn to spring. Best observed during migration or in its wintering grounds.
Where to spot
Breeds in Central Asia, including Afghanistan and parts of China. Winters extensively in Northeast Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Inhabits rocky slopes, arid plains, and semi-deserts.
How to spot
Look for it on open, stony ground with sparse vegetation. The rufous tail is its most prominent identification feature, especially when it flies or fans its tail. Listen for its varied song.
When to spot
Breeds in spring/summer. Migrates south from autumn to spring. Best observed during migration or in its wintering grounds.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
This wheatear is a strong migrant, undertaking long journeys between its breeding grounds in Central Asia and its wintering grounds in Northeast Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.
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