Not yet seen in the garden, the Stonechats are nice and easy to spot on the cliff face, most days perched on the highest branch of a gorse bush, and often singing to make sure you notice them.

The male (right) is quite handsome, with his striking black head, white collar and orange breast, but at first, I didn't recognise the bird below left as a Stonechat. However, I consulted with some more experienced bird watchers who confirmed that it is a moulting Stonechat, maybe a juvenile. Comparison with the winter adults in the centre helps make this clear. The last bird in the row is a female. All pictures will enlarge.

Sadly, the harsh winter of 2009/2010 seems to have wiped out the population of Stonechats on the undercliff. We did get a few isolated sightings during the year so they are still surviving nearby. Hopefully they will re-establish themselves before too long.

And still I can't resist taking more pictures..

This juvenile seemed hopeful of being fed by a passing House Sparrow!

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