Taxonomy
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Birds
Order: Passeriformes
Family: Muscicapidae
Genus: Erithacus
Species: Erithacus rubecula
Conservation Status of the Species in Portugal and Worldwide
Portugal
World
Features and
Habits
In terms of size, it has a length of approximately 14 cm and a wingspan between 20 and 22 cm. Regarding its characteristics, it has a whitish underside with an orange patch on the chest, and a brownish upper side. Juveniles are generally more brownish with orange spots. This species has a melodious and persistent song.
It is a diurnal bird. It feeds mainly on insects, spiders, earthworms and snails, and in winter on seeds, berries and other soft fruits. It nests in spring and summer, making nests composed of moss, dry leaves, roots and feathers. The female lays between 4 and 6 eggs which take about 12 to 15 days to incubate. For 12 to 14 days the chicks are cared for by their parents, being fed by both. After this time they begin to leave the nest.
In terms of interaction with humans, they don't usually appear in areas very close to humans, as they prefer densely forested areas. However, even without regular interaction, they are generally curious and opportunistic birds that approach people very easily. In areas where they are in contact with humans more often, they are even more tolerant.
Habitat and Distribution
It prefers habitats with dense vegetation and rich in insects. Any type of forest, as long as it is a dense forest. It also likes forests with rivers and streams. It is a bird that is often seen close to the ground searching for insects. For this same reason, when hidden it is mainly found in bushes close to the ground. It can also be seen in urban parks.
It is a common resident bird (found in Portugal throughout the year) in most of the country except for the Alentejo and Algarve regions, and a wintering bird (present only in winter) also in regions where it is not resident. In winter, there is a much higher concentration of this species throughout the country. In spring, it is more visible in the north, nesting mainly north of the Tagus River. Some of the most prominent locations for observing this species are the Sintra mountain range, the Lousã mountain range, the Buçaco Forest, and some city parks such as Monsanto.
All Photographs Taken
