Bluethroat

Scientific name: Luscinia svecica

Did you know that Bluethroats have a unique nesting style, and will often build their nests on the ground rather than in trees or bushes?

The Bluethroat is a small, brightly colored passerine bird that is native to Europe and Asia. It’s known for its distinctive blue throat patch, which gives it its name.

Despite their small size, Bluethroats are known for their powerful voices, and their songs can be heard from over a kilometer away!

They are often mistaken for the similar-looking Redstart, but they can be distinguished by their blue throat patch and white undertail feathers. The Redstart, on the other hand, has a reddish tail and breast.

These birds are usually found in wetland habitats such as marshes, bogs, and wet meadows, where they forage for insects, worms, and other small invertebrates.

Breeding & Nests

Male Bluethroats are known for their elaborate courtship displays, which involve singing, wing-flashing, and tail-wagging. They’ll even build multiple nests in an attempt to attract a mate.

They build cup-shaped nests on the ground, and the female will lay a clutch of 4-6 eggs. Both parents help to incubate the eggs and feed the chicks once they hatch.

And despite their small size, Bluethroats are fierce defenders of their territories and will not hesitate to fight off intruders. They are also known to be quite cunning, and have been observed using deceptive tactics to lure predators away from their nests.

Bluethroat Images

Facts About The Bluethroat

Diet: Mainly insects and berries
Bird Family: Chats
Length: 14cm
Wingspan: 20 - 23cm
Weight: 20g
Scientific Name: Luscinia svecica

The Bluethroat Can Be Seen In The UK During The Following Months

• March
• April
• May
• August
• September
• October