One of our latest returning summer migrants, Spotted Flycatchers are unassuming birds, named for their spotted or streaked crown and breast. Breeding across Europe to Siberia, it winters in Africa and south west Asia.

Despite being classed as of Least Concern by the IUCN, spot flys have seen a population decline of 89% from 1967 – 2010. They are birds of deciduous woodlands, parks and gardens, with a preference for open areas amongst trees.

I’m fortunate to have a handful of Spotted Flycatcher territories close to home, however, numbers have fluctuated in recent years. For these reasons I always look forward to their fleeting return each May.