Rufous-tailed Rock-thrush
Least ConcernMonticola saxatilis
Visual Identification
Rufous-tailed Rock-thrush
Appearance
The Rufous-tailed Rock-thrush is a striking bird with distinct sexual dimorphism. Males display a blue-grey head and upper mantle, contrasting with orange underparts and a rufous tail. The wings are brownish-grey with a distinctive white back patch.
Females are more subdued, with greyish-brown plumage and buff scaling, featuring orange-buff underparts with grey-brown barring and a whitish chin. Both sexes share similar tail colouring.
Juveniles resemble females but show heavier marking above and broader buff wing edges. Young males in their first summer show some residual scaling both above and below.
Size
Length
16cm to 19cm
Wingspan
33cm to 37cm
Weight
40g to 65g
Habitat and Distribution
Habitats
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Distribution
Rufous-tailed Rock-thrushes inhabit open, rocky areas in mountainous regions across Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia. They prefer sparsely vegetated slopes, alpine meadows, and rocky outcrops.
During the breeding season, they are found in upland areas of central and southern Europe. In winter, they migrate to sub-Saharan Africa and southern Arabia, occupying similar rocky habitats at lower elevations.
Elevation Range
Up to 4,000 meters
Climate zones
Temperate, Mediterranean, Subtropical
Distribution Map
Distribution by Region
Behaviour and Ecology
Bird Attributes
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Diet
The Rufous-tailed Rock-thrush primarily feeds on insects, including beetles, grasshoppers, and caterpillars. They supplement their diet with small berries and fruits, especially during autumn migration. These birds often hunt by pouncing on prey from an elevated perch.
Behaviour
Rufous-tailed Rock-thrushes are often seen perched prominently on rocks or low bushes, scanning for prey. They exhibit a distinctive bobbing motion when alert.
During courtship, males perform elaborate aerial displays, singing while flying upwards before gliding back down.
Vocalisation
The Rufous-tailed Rock-thrush's song is a series of clear, flute-like whistles interspersed with softer warbling notes. It often includes mimicry of other bird species. The call is a sharp, metallic 'chack' or 'tack', sometimes given in rapid succession when alarmed.
Nesting & Breeding
Breeding occurs from May to July. Males establish territories and attract females with their melodious songs and aerial displays. Pairs are monogamous for the breeding season.
Nests are built in rock crevices or under boulders, constructed primarily by the female using grass, moss, and small roots. The clutch typically consists of 4-5 pale blue eggs with fine reddish-brown speckles.
Incubation lasts about 13-14 days, primarily by the female. Both parents feed the chicks, which fledge after 14-16 days but remain dependent on adults for several more weeks.
Conservation and Status
Global Conservation Status
While currently listed as Least Concern, the Rufous-tailed Rock-thrush faces localised threats from habitat loss due to changes in land use and agricultural practices.
Climate change may also impact their high-altitude habitats in the long term.
Population Data
Global Population Estimate
895,000 - 2,860,000 mature individuals [2]
Global Population Trend
Trend data may be uncertain or fluctuating
Birdwatching Tips
- Look for them in rocky, open habitats at higher elevations
- Listen for their melodious song, especially during the breeding season
- Observe their habit of perching on prominent rocks or posts
- Visit breeding grounds in spring and summer for the best chance of sightings
Additional Information
Quick Facts
Other names:
Rock Thrush, Common Rock Thrush
Family:
MuscicapidaePredators
Main predators include birds of prey such as falcons and hawks, as well as small carnivorous mammals that can access their nesting sites.
Did You Know?
- Rufous-tailed Rock-thrushes can survive in areas with very little vegetation, adapting to harsh mountain environments.
- They are known for their ability to hover briefly while foraging, a behaviour uncommon among thrushes.
- Despite their name, they are more closely related to Old World flycatchers than to true thrushes.
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References
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website: BirdLife International. 2024. Monticola saxatilis. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2024: e.T22708257A264537355.
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