The Black Redstart is a small passerine characterized by dark plumage; the male is black with a white patch on its wings and a reddish tail. The female is grayer but retains the rust-colored tail. It nests in cavities, often near buildings, and lays 4–6 eggs per season. It is found in a wide variety of habitats, from the plains to high mountains. During the winter, some populations migrate to southern Europe and North Africa.