Vanda SvobodovaIntroduction to the Black Redstart
The Black Redstart (Phoenicurus ochruros), a small passerine bird commonly known as “kominíček” in Czech, has been named the Bird of the Year 2024 by the Czech Society for Ornithology. This title aims to draw attention to how common bird species can help understand the impact of climate change on species distribution and the behavior of individual populations. The Black Redstart’s changing migratory behavior is particularly noteworthy, as more of these birds are attempting to overwinter in the Czech Republic.
Habitat and Behavior
The Black Redstart inhabits a wide range of habitats, from urban environments to high mountain scree. It has a particular fondness for human settlements, including busy city centers, peaceful village squares, and standalone farmhouses, forest lodges, barns, sheds, or mountain huts. The bird is known for its grey or black-grey coloration and a striking rusty tail, which it often flicks. Young males in their first year of life are inconspicuously grey like females, with only a small portion showing the typical black-grey coat that most males display in their second year.
Folklore and Naming
The Black Redstart’s metaphorically sooty coat has led to its folk name “kominíček” (little chimney sweep). The origin of its Czech zoological name “rehek” is not entirely clear; while some derive it from the word “rezek” (rusty), others suggest an onomatopoeic origin based on its scratchy song, similar to other singers like “řehák” and “řeháček.”
Population Trends and Climate Change
Unlike many other bird species, the Black Redstart’s population is slightly increasing. This species is gradually spreading northward in Europe along with climate warming. In recent years, some cities have observed overwintering individuals, likely related to global warming. Ornithologists in Brno have started individually tagging wintering Black Redstarts with color reading rings. Preliminary results indicate that at least some individuals are present in Brno year-round.
Public Involvement in Bird Mapping
The public can participate in mapping Black Redstarts, especially regarding their winter occurrence, through the accompanying “Rehci v zimě” (Black Redstarts in Winter) program. More information about this program is available on the website of the Czech Society for Ornithology.
Habitat and Nesting
The Black Redstart lives throughout the Czech Republic, from lowlands to the peaks of the Krkonoše Mountains, including the highest mountain, Sněžka. While a small portion inhabits original environments away from human settlements, such as rocks, quarries, or ruins, most of the population now nests near humans. The estimated size of the nesting population in the Czech Republic is between 200,000 and 400,000 pairs.
The selection of the Black Redstart as the Bird of the Year 2024 highlights the importance of understanding the effects of climate change on wildlife. This small bird, adapting to urban environments and changing migratory patterns, serves as a symbol of the dynamic relationship between nature and human-influenced habitats. The Czech Society for Ornithology’s initiative not only raises awareness about this species but also encourages public participation in ornithological studies and conservation efforts.
