\n While I do love sunshine, temperatures were a little higher than my comfort zone, so I headed for a walk along the East Lothian coast, hoping for a refreshing breeze and the chance of seeing stonechats.\n<\/p>\n
\n Stonechats are robin-sized members of the chat family. The male is particularly striking, with a black head, white neck patches and a warm orange breast. Females are slightly more subdued in colouring but still beautiful and just as welcome to pose for my photos.\n<\/p>\n
\n Although they are found across our county, the shoreline is probably the best place to find them. They can be quite tricky to photograph due to their small size and plumage, which blends nicely into the coastal environment.\n<\/p>\n
\n Stonechat female (Image: Zan Threlfall)\n<\/p>\n
\n This restless little bird is amusing to watch as it uses a distinctive ‘perch-and-wait’ hunting technique, scanning the ground for insects from an exposed perch before dropping down to grab its prey and then returning to a different plant.\n<\/p>\n
\n As it moves, it constantly flicks its tail and wings, often giving a sharp “check-chack” or “tic-tic” call which resembles two small stones being tapped together, giving the stonechat its name.\n<\/p>\n
\n It is always rewarding to find one perched perfectly on top of a plant, as it provides a fantastic opportunity for a clear photograph and often an interesting background.\n<\/p>\n
\n Having said that, stonechats are not birds I encounter as often as I would like. If I do find one, often it is gone by the time I got close enough to take a shot.\n<\/p>\n
\n This time of the year, stonechats are very busy looking after their youngsters. They typically raise two to three broods a year, laying clutches of five to six eggs that incubate for about two weeks.\n<\/p>\n
\n That day, I was fortunate to spot a pair. Despite the sunshine, it was quite windy and, despite my best efforts to listen out for the “chak-chak” call, I failed to hear one. However, the orangey chest and the hopping flight from fern to fern gave their presence away.\n<\/p>\n
\n Initially, I waited and watched them patiently, which is always a gamble \u2013 the birds may stay where they are, move closer or disappear altogether. This time, luck was on my side: not only was I able to watch the pair catch some insects, but I also had the chance of seeing them feed their younger family member and photograph them from close range. I call it a success!\n<\/p>\n
\n I hope you have been enjoying the sunny days and perhaps had the chance to explore East Lothian\u2019s wonderful wildlife. If you come across something interesting, I would love to see it!\n<\/p>\n
\n Stonechat (Image: Alan Phillips)\n<\/p>\n
\n Each month, I will select one image to feature alongside this column, crediting the photographer, and sharing a few tips on how to watch and photograph the species captured.\n<\/p>\n
\n If you\u2019d like to take part, you can send your wildlife photos to zanslens@gmail.com\n<\/p>\n
\n Speak to you next month!\n<\/p>\n
\n zanslens.co.uk<\/a>\n<\/p>\n