Species of the week:Eurasian Blackcap

Species of the week:
Eurasian Blackcap(Sylvia atricapilla)

1. The Blackcap is part of the warbler family. It is widespread and can be found in most of Europe. Northwest Africa and Western Asia.
2. They lay about 4-6 eggs and which hatch in about 11 days.
3. The male holds a territory which it defends from other Blackcaps.
4. It's favorite habitat its deciduous woodland and scrubland depending on the location.
5. It's diet consists of small fruits and small insects.
6. Although it's generally grey the blackcap has distinct male and female plumage and a distinct black cap on it's head.
7. Although mostly monogamous both sexes have been observed deviating from this.
8. Blackcaps have evolved to spot alien eggs in their clutch making it hard for Cuckoo birds to mimic their eggs.
9. They are partial migrants meaning that they will only relocate from the colder areas to warmer areas within their own range.
10. It is considered a delicacy in European countries in which it is trapped. Despite it's "Least Concern"status the trapping practices are a nightmare for conservation as seen here.