Northern Wheatear
NameNorthern Wheatear
Common NameNorthern Wheatear
Scientific NameOenanthe oenanthe
FamilyMuscicapidae
Wingspan (cm)29
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)23.5
Plumage DetailsMales in breeding plumage have a grey crown and back, a prominent black mask extending from the bill through the eye, a buffy throat and breast, and a white belly. Their wings are dark brown to black, and they have a distinctive white rump with a black 'T' pattern on the tail. Females are duller, with a brownish-grey back and a less defined mask.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a distinctive 'chack' or 'chick-chack'. The song is a short, warbling, scratchy melody, often delivered from a prominent perch or in a display flight.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, tundra, mountain, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across a vast range including Europe, Asia, Greenland, and parts of Canada and Alaska. It is a long-distance migrant, wintering primarily in sub-Saharan Africa.
Identifying Featuresgrey back and crown (male), black mask (male), buffy breast, white rump with black 'T' tail pattern, upright posture, frequent tail bobbing
Description
The Northern Wheatear is a small, migratory passerine known for its upright posture and distinctive tail pattern. It often perches prominently on rocks or posts, frequently bobbing its tail. This species undertakes one of the longest migratory journeys of any small bird.
