Beta
The Stonechat
The stonechat is a similar size to a robin, with distinctive markings. Males can be distinguished by their black head, brown back, black throat and a white half collar - females and juveniles are paler.
This bird often sits on top of gorse bushes, flicking its wings. Its distinctive call sounds like two stones being rubbed together, hence where its name came from.
The heathers, gorse and Scots pine on Horsell Common suit the stonechat perfectly. They nest in dense vegetation and trees. The stonechat feeds on insects, berries, seeds, slugs and even small frogs.
For more information on the stonechat and other wildlife of Horsell Common, please visit the HCPS website.
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