Redstart
This colourful thrush, which journeys from Africa and Arabia each spring, is a distinctive visitor to Scotland.
Redstarts seek out holes in broadleaved trees for nesting, but also take readily to nest boxes.
A good place to spot redstarts is Taynish National Nature Reserve in late spring and early summer.
Visit in the early morning and you may see (and hear) male redstarts at the very tops of the oak trees, defending their territories with song.
Protection of redstarts
Find out how Scotland’s wild birds are protected.
Learn about birds and licensing.
Read our guidance for planners and developers on protected animals.
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