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.
Frequently asked questions about the The Stonechat
Is the The Stonechat endangered?
You might like...
Black Currawong
The currawong is a bird found only in Tasmania, frequents forests, and is a glossy all-black colour with a heavy black bill, small white tip to its tail and wingtips, and bright-yellow eyes.
Forty-spotted Pardalote
One of the world's rarest birds, the Forty-Spotted Pardalote's remaining stronghold is on Bruny Island and Maria Island, off Tasmania
Newsletter
Sign up to keep in touch with articles, updates, events or news from Kuno, your platform for nature