March’s photo challenge
A widespread and popular resident, European Stonechat is your target bird this month.
EUROPEAN Stonechat is always a favourite with photographers. The species can be very approachable, while its inquisitive nature makes it a particularly photogenic subject.
It’s also found widely in open habitats, although its preferences differ depending on the seasons – lowland areas, such as farmland or marshes, are favoured in the winter months, before it ascends to higher ground to breed in the summer. On passage, it can be found just about anywhere – but always favours rougher ground, such as field margins or river valleys.
A succession of mild winters has seen populations of this charming species increase considerably, with anecdotal reports from many areas of Britain suggesting winter 202021 was a particularly good one for it – perhaps you’ve been fortunate enough to find one near you in recent weeks.
March is a great month for finding passage European Stonechats and, as such, we want to see your best photos of this species for our latest photo challenge. With lockdown restrictions still in place at time of writing, we welcome submissions from your personal archives.
The winner will receive a copy of Lapwings, Loons and Lousy Jacks by Ray Reedman. ■
Terms and conditions
Please email your entries to editorial@birdwatch.co.uk. The competition is open to anyone and you may enter as many photos as you wish. The closing date is 31 March
2021.