Hausrotschwanz: A Common Sight in Thuringia

Hausrotschwanz: The Bird of the Year in Thuringia

The hausrotschwanz, or Black Redstart, has been designated the Bird of the Year 2025 and is increasingly common in Thuringia. Marcus Orlamünder, a conservation expert from Nabu Thuringia, noted that the hausrotschwanz is found more often in populated areas with cities and towns than in densely forested regions with lower settlement density.

Adapting to Human Habitats

• The hausrotschwanz typically nests in house niches or under gables.
• Renovated buildings have reduced suitable nesting sites.
• The decline in insect populations, their primary food source, poses challenges.

Characterized by its reddish tail feathers, the hausrotschwanz often overwinters in North Africa or the Middle East, although some stay in Germany. For over 50 years, Nabu and LBV have chosen the Bird of the Year to raise awareness for bird conservation, with public voting introduced in 2021.