Old World Flycatchers in Leicestershire
6 species matching this filter.
Leicestershire is home to six recorded species of Old World Flycatchers, a diverse family that includes familiar garden favourites like the European Robin alongside more elusive visitors such as the Spotted Flycatcher and Common Redstart. The county's mix of parklands, hedgerows, heathland, and open farmland provides varied habitats for both resident and migratory members of this family. Notable passage migrants such as the Wheatear and Whinchat can be spotted on open ground during spring and autumn, while the striking Stonechat favours rough grassland and gorse-covered areas.
Common Redstart
Phoenicurus phoenicurusLC
A rare passage migrant glimpsed briefly in April and August. Does not breed in the county but may stop over in wooded areas on migration.
Apr–Aug
European Robin
Erithacus rubeculaLC
A much-loved common resident of gardens, woodland, and hedgerows year-round. One of the first birds to sing at dawn across the county.
Year-round
Spotted Flycatcher
Muscicapa striataLC
A rare and declining summer breeder, arriving in May. Favours woodland edges and churchyards, sallying from exposed perches to catch insects.
May–Sep
Stonechat
Saxicola torquatusLC
A rare non-breeding visitor to heathland edges, rough grassland, and reservoir margins. Most likely seen from autumn through early spring.
Sep–Apr
Wheatear
Oenanthe oenantheLC
A rare passage migrant seen on open fields and ploughed land in spring and autumn, pausing briefly on migration.
Mar–Sep
Whinchat
Saxicola rubetraLC
A rare passage migrant seen briefly in May and again in August–September. Favours rough grassland and scrubby margins on migration.
May–Sep