Stonechat
Saxicola torquata
Length 12-13cm

Small, distinctive resident of heaths and commons, often numerous on gorse- and bramble-covered slopes near coasts. In breeding season, male (A) is handsome with black head, white on side of neck, dark back, reddish orange breast and pale underparts. Female (B) and winter male have duller plumage. Often perches openly, flicking tail and announcing presence with harsh tchak call, like two pebbles being knocked together. Whitethroat-like song sometimes delivered in flight.