Common whitethroat

Another insect-eating warbler that crosses the Sahara to spend the summer with us, adding its almost angry-sounding, “scratchy” song to our summer soundtrack. This song, along with the white feathers at the throat (less distinct in the female), and a hyperactive tail, make it easier to identify than some of our warblers. They are another bird where the males build nests for the females to choose. They arrive here roughly ten days before the females to start this process by establishing territories. Whitethroats are known for their curiosity, investigating disturbances in their territory and threatening intruders with an aggressive call. Their liking for scrubby habitats like Gallows Hill has led to the excellent alternative name “Nettlecreeper”.

By Neil Griffin Photo by Pixabay