Whinchat Saxicola rubetra. It is a small, short-tailed bird. The meadow lamprey breeds in a wide variety of habitats including wet meadows, heaths, mountain pastures and grasslands, fern-covered slopes, reedbed edges, open areas with sparse vegetation, scrub, and hedgerows. It often perches upright on a plant, lashing its tail with sudden movements. It is usually monogamous, but sometimes changes partners during the season. The male arrives at the breeding grounds first and establishes the territory. It sings loudly and makes elaborate displays. It sings from a perch in front of the female with drooping wings, tail outstretched and head held high. The species is very loyal to its breeding grounds, often returning to the same site year after year.
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