Wheatear

What is a "wheatear"?

A wheatear is a small migratory bird belonging to the chat family. It has a compact body with a length of about 13-15 centimeters. The plumage of the wheatear varies depending on the species, but generally, it has a striking combination of colors. The upperparts are usually brown or grayish, while the underparts are white or pale in color. One of the notable features of the wheatear is its distinctive white rump, which is visible when the bird is in flight or perched with its tail raised. The male wheatear often displays a black mask around the eye and an orange-brown throat and breast, adding to its overall charm. These birds are known for their agility and quick movements as they hunt for insects on the ground or catch flying insects in mid-air. Wheatears are renowned for their long-distance migrations, traveling thousands of kilometers each year between their breeding grounds in Europe and their wintering grounds in Africa.