- The Nightingale's plumage is plain brown with a reddish-brown rump
and tail. The throat is whitish and the underparts are grey-brown.
- The large black eye is made more prominent by a pale eye-ring.
- The bill is dark brown and the legs flesh coloured.
- Length 16-17cm
- Summer visitor to S and SE England, present from mid-April to August
Skulking and secretive
- Wing Span: 20-22.5 cm (8-9")
- Weight: 15-23 g (½-¾ oz
- Breeding Pairs: 5500
- Prefers lowland deciduous woodland especially with coppice or with
dense bushy undergrowth.
- Eats mostly insects and worms, but also takes fruit and berries.
- Famed for its powerful, musical song, which is delivered both by
day and at night and is audible over long range
- Has rich brown upperparts which contrast with chestnut-red lower
back and tail; underparts pale grey-buff.
- Favours woodland with dense scrub layer and mature coppiced hazel;
several neighbouring pairs usually found in suitable habitats.
|
