Phoenicurus phoenicurus

Interesting facts: Its characteristic red tail gives the genus its name. In urban areas, the bird is found almost exclusively in diversely structured gardens with many old fruit trees. Its occurrence is also regulated by the availability of suitable tree hollows. The bird often sits on low lying branches. From there it can be seen flying briefly to the ground. As soon as it has caught an insect in its beak, it flies back to its branch.

Characteristics: The males are attractively coloured, with white forehead, dark mask and throat, breast a bright red-brown. Females are inconspicuous, predominantly brownish beige. Both sexes have a rust-red tail; the species bobs the tail constantly, like the black redstart

Body length: Less than 20 cm (sparrow length)

Distribution: Sparse deciduous and mixed forests with old trees, orchards, parks and gardens with old trees