Eurasian Stonechat

🔍 Overview

A perky and charismatic bird, the Stonechat is a year-round resident of Sussex heathland, scrub, and coastal edges.

🪶 Key Identification Features

Size: Small (11–13 cm)
Plumage: Males: black head, orange chest; Females: browner overall
Distinctive Marks: White neck patch (male), tail flicking
Bill: Fine and pointed
Tail: Black and often flicked
Flight: Bouncy with short bursts

🗺️ Habitat & Distribution

Found across Sheepcote Valley, Steep Down, Cissbury Ring, and rough field margins.

🎶 Voice & Behaviour

Call sounds like two stones being tapped: “chak-chak.” Often sings from gorse or wires.

🍴 Diet

Insects, spiders, small berries.

📸 Birding Tip

Watch for them perching upright on scrubby bushes or fence posts, especially in winter.