Best time to see: mid Apr to end Aug

Key facts

A mountain bird that has adapted to nest in urban habitats, including on buildings alongside the Thames

A rare breeding bird in Britain, and in spring and autumn may also be seen almost anywhere passing through

Gets its name from its red tail, which is very conspicuous in flight

Recognition

Orange-red tail and vent, and otherwise grey-black; juveniles are tinged brown, with a dull red tail

Upright stance with a rather pot-bellied look

Red tail is very conspicuous in flight