Redstart
Phoenicurus phoenicurus
Overview
Redstarts share the oak woods with pied flycatchers. That red tail flicks as they hunt. Borrowdale, Haweswater, Grizedale. April to June. The song is a short warble. Once you know it you'll find them.
At a Glance
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Muscicapidae |
| Habitat | Oak woodland · Mixed woodland · Mature hedgerows |
| Diet | Insects. Catches them in flight and from leaves. |
| UK population | Around 100,000 breeding pairs. Declining. |
| Lake District | Common in Lakeland oak woods. Borrowdale and Haweswater are reliable. That red tail is the giveaway. |
| Conservation | UK Amber List |
Where to See It
Oak and mixed woodland. RSPB Haweswater, Borrowdale, Grizedale. Often in the same woods as pied flycatchers.
Identification
Male grey back, black face, orange-red breast and tail. Female browner. Tail flicks constantly.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Oak woodland in May. Listen for the song. They like mature trees with holes for nesting.
Conservation Status
UK Amber List
This species is on the UK Amber List for Birds (BoCC5), indicating moderate concern. Population monitoring and habitat management remain important for its continued recovery.
Plan your visit to the Lake District
RSPB Haweswater, Grizedale Forest, Leighton Moss. Practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.