Red-breasted flycatcher

The red-breasted flycatcher is a small passerine bird in the Old World flycatcher family. It breeds in eastern Europe and across Central Asia and is strictly migratory, wintering in south Asia. The breeding male is mainly muted brown above and white below, with a grey head and an orange throat. Females and immatures are similarly colored but lack the orange throat patch. The red-breasted flycatcher is a regular passage migrant in western Europe, whereas the collared flycatcher, which has a different migration route, is scarce. It forms a superspecies with the closely related taiga flycatcher and Kashmir flycatcher and can be distinguished from the former by its different song, warmer-toned plumage and the more extensive orange throat patch.

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Distribution

Region

Eastern Europe to Central Asia; winters in South Asia

Typical Environment

Breeds in mature deciduous and mixed woodlands, often with beech, oak, birch, or spruce, and a well-developed understory. Prefers forest edges, clearings, riverine woods, and sometimes large parks and old gardens. During migration it uses a variety of wooded habitats, including hedgerows and shelterbelts. In winter it frequents moist and dry forests, groves, and wooded gardens across the Indian subcontinent and Sri Lanka.

Altitude Range

0–2000 m

Climate Zone

Temperate

Characteristics

Size11–12 cm

Wing Span18–22 cm

Male Weight0.01 kg

Female Weight0.009 kg

Life Expectancy5 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

This small flycatcher breeds from eastern Europe through Central Asia and winters in South Asia. Males show a vivid orange throat in breeding plumage, while females and immatures lack the orange and look plainer. It forms a superspecies complex with the taiga flycatcher and Kashmir flycatcher; voice, throat color extent, and subtle plumage tones help separate them. Red-breasted flycatchers often flick their tails and sally from low to mid-level perches to catch insects.

Gallery

Ficedula parva - MHNT

Breeding male in Ukraine

Wintering male in Keoladeo National Park, Rajasthan, India

Behaviour

Temperament

secretive but active

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with frequent sallies

Social Behavior

Generally solitary or in pairs during breeding; territorial males sing from low to mid canopy. Nests in tree cavities or crevices, often using natural holes or old woodpecker nest sites. Clutch typically 5–7 eggs; both parents feed the young.

Migratory Pattern

Seasonal migrant

Song Description

A soft, sweet series of high, thin phrases and trills, delivered in short strophes. Calls include a sharp tick or tzek, often given when alarmed. Song is faster and more musical than taiga flycatcher, aiding identification.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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Red-breasted nuthatch

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Red-breasted parakeet

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