Eversmann's Redstart

The Eversmann's redstart, or rufous-backed redstart, is a passerine bird of notable size among its kin. It measures 15 to 16 cm in length with a wingspan stretching from 25.5 to 27 cm. This species exhibits a striking black bill and legs, adding to its distinctive appearance.

Identification Tips

In breeding plumage, the male Eversmann's redstart is adorned with a black mask, complemented by a grey crown and nape. The back and rump boast a rich rufous hue, while the tail is similarly colored, save for the darker central feathers. The wings are dark, punctuated by white patches on the scapulars and primary-coverts. The underparts are predominantly rufous, transitioning to white on the belly and undertail-coverts. Outside of the breeding season, and in first-winter males, the plumage is considerably duller and browner. Females are primarily grey-brown with a rufous tail featuring a dark center, a pale eye-ring, two buff wingbars, and buff edges to the tertials.

Habitat

During the breeding season, Eversmann's redstart favors forest and woodland habitats, ascending to remarkable altitudes of up to 5400 meters above sea level.

Distribution

This bird breeds in the mountainous regions of Central Asia and southern Siberia, ranging from the Tien Shan to the Tarbagatay and Altay Mountains, and in the vicinity of Lake Baikal. In winter, some individuals descend to lower elevations, while others undertake more extensive migrations to southern Iraq, Iran, Pakistan, and the western Himalayas of Kashmir. A handful of these redstarts have been recorded as vagrants in Israel and Turkey.

Behaviour

The Eversmann's redstart is known for its lively demeanor, often seen flicking its tail up and down. During the breeding season, it primarily consumes insects, while in winter, its diet shifts to include fruit and seeds.

Song & Calls

The species' song is characterized as loud and vivacious. Additionally, it emits a soft, croaking call and a whistling call, contributing to its auditory repertoire.

Breeding

Eversmann's redstart breeds in the high mountains of Central Asia and southern Siberia, with some populations migrating to lower altitudes or further distances for wintering.

Diet and Feeding

Insects form the mainstay of its diet during the breeding season, with fruit and seeds becoming more important during the winter months.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List has classified Eversmann's redstart as Least Concern, indicating that the species currently faces no imminent threat to its survival.