Well a birding friend of mine managed to decipher the number on the ring this summer and sent it off to the BTO to see what information they held. It was quite astonishing really.
It was initially ringed in Devon in 2007, when it was at least 2 years old. That makes our bird at least 7 years old. I am told that the oldest Redstart ever recorded was aged 8.
Some great information to receive and shows the usefulness of the BTO ringing scheme.
What a handsome devil? I hope to see him again next year.
That is incredible!! What a handsome fellow he is! Thank you so much, Adam, for sharing that info. I love birds, but have to admit I don't know a lot about them -- lived in the middle of cities most of my life. I'm not familiar with the Redstarts, but what amazing birds!
ReplyDeleteThat seems quite an age for a small bird. To be truthful I actually have no idea of the lifespan of birds so thanks for the info.
ReplyDeletewow! tiny bird lives 7 years! hopefully another year or two to go!
ReplyDeleteHe's a real charmer! Very dapper. Hard to imagine something so tiny has that longevity. And wonderful to know!
ReplyDeleteAmazing shots and greetings from my blog
ReplyDeleteGREAT PHOTO,i HAVE NEVER SEEN ONE BEFORE
ReplyDeleteWhat an absolutely wonderful story to go with spotting him!!! This is just amazing. I too hope you see it again, over and over and over.
ReplyDeleteA great post Adam... and the Redstart shot is fantastic.
ReplyDeletehe does not seem to be a day over 5. :)
ReplyDeleteHe is beautiful. Yes the ringing system is very good. I found a dead gull once and sent the ring i. Later I got a letter with the data they had of the bird. It had been over a large portion of europe. :)
How wonderful to be able to find out that information! A great capture, too!
ReplyDeleteOh how beautiful & oh so cute! Wonderful captures & thanks so much for visiting =)
ReplyDeleteWhat a gorgeous shot of this sweet fellow.
ReplyDeleteLovely capture.
ReplyDeleteGreen Bug
Visiting a little late from Camera Critters.
Wow! beautiful.
ReplyDeleteHello Adam
ReplyDeleteBeautiful bird viewing.
Interesting that you can see / follow the bird because of its ring mark.
Hope to see you again next year.
Hanne Bente
Well followed up Adam and good to see him again.
ReplyDeleteA very handsome species and great to learn about its history Adam.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful bird.
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful little bird! I haven't seen these before.
ReplyDeleteYes, a stunning capture, Adam - just reward for your early morning sojourn!
ReplyDelete