Listen:

Gallery:

Key information: The Northern Wheatear passes through Cyprus during migration. It is common between February and May, and can also be seen between August and November. It is most easily seen feeding in coastal fields, although it can also be found further inland. Northern Wheatears have a similar tail pattern to Cyprus Wheatears (an inverted black “T” on white background), which is clearly seen in flight.

Length: 14 – 16.5 cm

Habitat: Farmland, mountains and forests

When they can be seen: Autumn, spring

What they eat: Invertebrates

In Cyprus: Can be seen at migration hotspots in dry, rocky areas with low vegetation such as Akrotiri Peninsula, Cape Greco and Paphos Plains

Status: Passage migrant

Illustration by Paschalis Dougalis