Winsor & Newton Watercolour professional, Hot pressed, 100% cotton, 300g/m2, 25.4 x 35.6 cm
Cotman aquarelverf (tubes)

Reference: own photo

After all those wet, foggy and cloudy days, I now long for spring again. Nature then wakes up from its hibernation. Temperatures are becoming more pleasant again, flowers are starting to bloom, trees are getting leaves again and birds are returning. One of the birds I am waiting for again is the Bluethroat (Luscinia svecica), with its striking blue throat and melodious song.

The Bluethroat is mainly found in moist grasslands, swamps and reed beds. The male is particularly colorful, with a bright blue breast that is often bordered by a black and a red or white band. The female is less conspicuous, with more modest plumage, but is still beautiful to look at.

Every spring, the Bluethroats return to their breeding grounds in the Netherlands after a long journey from their wintering grounds in Southern Europe and North Africa. This return is a sign that spring has really begun. The males usually arrive first, often in March, to establish and defend territories. They sing loud and clear to make their presence known and keep competing males at bay. Their song is a complex and varied repertoire of whistles, trills and imitations of other birds.

The best time to observe Bluethroats is in early spring, especially in the early morning or late afternoon when they are most active. With a little patience and luck, you can enjoy the spectacular sight and sound of these magnificent birds.

Just a little longer, then it’s that time again….

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