The Red-flanked Bluetail is a small woodland bird that breeds in northern Eurasia and Japan and rarely visits the United States. Both sexes have a blue tail and orange flanks, but only adult males are blue across the back.
Appearance
Appearance
It is about 5–5.5 in (13–14 cm) long. Females and young males are mostly brown above, with blue on the tail and rump and orange on the flanks.
Where it lives
Typical habitats
woodland
forest understory
Range
This bird breeds in northern Eurasia and Japan. In the United States, it is a rare visitor, recorded mainly in western Alaska and occasionally in California.
Behavior
Diet
It catches insects from perches or on the ground.
Activity
It often flicks its blue tail while watching for insects.
Life cycle
Nest
In its Eurasian breeding range, it nests on or close to the ground.