Moussier's Redstart

Description:

Moussier's Redstart is a small bird, slightly smaller and lighter built than house sparrow, of some 12-13 cm in length, The male (pictures 1,2,3, and 6) sports striking plumage with a bright orange-red breast, belly, and rump, and black head, back, and wings with a distinctive white wing patch. It also sports broad white stripe running above each eye and down the side of the neck. The female (pics 4 &5) is duller in comparison, with a more brownish coloration on the upperparts and paler underparts.

Habitat:

Found in open scrubland and rocky area close to human habitations, but off-the-beaten-track, in Atlas mountains at some 1400-1500m of altitude. It is not endemic, but it has a very limited range, and is particularly found in the mountainous regions of Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia at an altitude of between 1000 and 2500 meters.

Notes:

1.) Great treat today as this couple allow me to shoot my wits out from a quite close range... and this species was No 1 on my wishlist while I was packing for Morocco. 2.) The Moussier's redstart is the national emblem of Morocco. 3.) Diet: Primarily insectivorous, feeding on various insects and other small invertebrates. 4.) Breeding season typically occurs from February to June. They build nests in crevices, rock walls, or trees, often laying 3-6 eggs.