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Blackcap

Sylvia atricapilla

Not yet photographed by the community

Superb warbler; male has a neat black cap.

Species Profile

Green List (UK breeding population stable and widespread)

Lifespan: 10–12 years in the wild
Size & Weight: 13–14 cm, wingspan 20–25 cm; 14–18 g
Habitat: Deciduous and mixed woodlands, scrub, hedgerows, and gardens with dense vegetation and berry-bearing shrubs.
UK Distribution: Summer breeding visitor throughout much of the UK (April–September); small overwintering population has increased significantly since the 1990s, particularly in southern England.
Diet: Insects and spiders during breeding season; berries and fruit in autumn and winter, especially bilberry, elder, and currants.
Prey: Small insects including flies, aphids, caterpillars, and spiders.
Predators: Sparrowhawks, other accipiters, and occasionally cats; eggs and chicks may be taken by corvids.
Mating Season: April to July
Breeding: Clutch of 4–5 eggs; incubation period 10–11 days; typically one brood per year, occasionally two.
Behaviour: Males are highly territorial and produce a rich, melodious song delivered from cover or in flight. They are relatively skulking but can be quite vocal. Often seen feeding acrobatically among foliage.

Did You Know?

•The male's black cap contrasts sharply with his reddish-brown crown; females have a warm buff-brown cap making them trickier to identify.
•Since the 1990s, growing numbers of Blackcaps from central Europe have begun overwintering in the UK instead of migrating to Africa, likely due to climate change and garden bird feeders.
•Blackcaps are exceptional singers with one of the most complex and beautiful songs of any British warbler.
•They can store fat reserves equivalent to 40% of their body weight to fuel long-distance migration.
•Both males and females sing, which is unusual among warblers—females often sing in autumn to defend winter feeding territories.

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