The Common Redstart or just Redstart is a small passerine bird that was formerly classed as a member of the Thrush family, but is now more generally considered to be an Old World flycatcher. It is a summer visitor in Europe. Its winter quarters are in north Africa. The Redstart is common in Great Britain but in Ireland it is very local. However it has declined by 55% in England in the past 25 years. The male Redstarts first arrive early in April, often a few days in advance of the females. It is a bird of the woodlands and open park land, especially where the timber is old enough to supply cracks and crannies suitable for its nest.
