The white-throated redstart is a species of bird in the family Muscicapidae.
Region
Himalayas and southwestern China
Typical Environment
Breeds and occurs from Nepal and Bhutan through northeast India into Tibet, Sichuan, and Yunnan, with winter movements to lower Himalayan foothills and adjacent regions. It inhabits coniferous and mixed montane forests, rhododendron and juniper scrub, and rocky slopes near forest edges. The species favors clearings, stream corridors, and open patches within otherwise forested landscapes. In winter it uses similar habitats at lower elevations, including wooded valleys, terraced hillsides, and shrubby edges.
Altitude Range
1000–4700 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The white-throated redstart is an Old World flycatcher that favors high montane forests and scrub across the Himalayas and southwestern China. Males are striking with a crisp white throat set against dark upperparts and a rufous tail, while females are more subdued brown with a warm tail. It often perches conspicuously and makes short sallies to catch insects. In winter it descends to lower elevations and may join loose mixed-species flocks.
From Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary, East Sikkim, India in alpine snowy meadows.
Temperament
alert and moderately shy
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with frequent sallying flights
Social Behavior
Generally solitary or in pairs during the breeding season and territorial around nesting sites. Nests are cup-shaped and placed in crevices, banks, or sheltered cavities; both parents feed the young. In the non-breeding season it may form loose associations and join mixed-species flocks in suitable habitat.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song is a bright, tinkling series of clear whistles and short trills delivered from exposed perches. Calls include sharp tik-tik notes and thin, high contact calls.
