Common name: Northern Wheatear
Scientific name: Oenanthe oenanthe
Family: Muscicapidae

Size:
Body length: 14–16 cm
Wingspan: 26–32 cm
Weight: 20–30 g

Identification:
A slender, upright passerine with a distinctive black “T”-shaped tail pattern visible in flight. Males in breeding plumage show a pale grey back, black wings, and a bold black eye mask with a white supercilium. Females are more subdued, with brownish tones and less contrast. Both sexes have a white rump and tail base.

Habitat:
Open habitats such as rocky ground, grasslands, coastal plains, deserts, and mountainous areas.

Status in the UAE:
Common passage migrant. Frequently recorded during migration across open habitats.

Status in Lebanon:
Common passage migrant and local breeder in suitable mountainous areas.

Diet:
Insectivorous — feeds mainly on insects and other small invertebrates.

Behavior:
Often seen standing upright on rocks or low perches. Frequently flicks its tail and makes short flights to catch prey. Moves actively on the ground. During migration, occurs singly or in small numbers.

Conservation status:
Least Concern (IUCN Red List)