Blackcap

A distinctive warbler with a neat, rounded shape and a pleasant warbling song. Male birds have a shiny black cap, while females and young birds have a chestnut brown one. The body is grey-brown on top with lighter colouring underneath, giving it a subtle but attractive look. The bird is especially noisy during the breeding season and often sings from thick cover. It is common across Britain in the summer, with many birds now staying in southern England for the winter instead of flying to the Mediterranean. Some birds only move part of the way, with those from the continent passing through in spring and autumn. This bird prefers mature woodland, parks, and gardens that have thick undergrowth. It particularly likes areas with brambles, dense shrubs, and tall hedgerows. Often, it is heard singing before it is seen. It feeds actively in the tree canopy on insects, berries, and fruit.