What they like

Messy, warm and open. Think: little sheds, old stone walls, piles of wood, gravel roofs, railway embankments. In the garden: a sunny corner with bare soil, some stones and low shrubs. Leave it a bit “not quite finished.” In parks and yards: keep some rough patches, don’t mow everything neat. On farmland: flower-rich field margins and ditch banks with a few sandy spots work great.

Ecological importance

A fast insect-catcher. Eats mainly flies, mosquitoes, beetles, caterpillars and spiders. Raises its young on insects, so he’s a direct barometer: is there life in your greenery or not? He’s also on the menu for sparrowhawks and cats—cover helps.

When in the Netherlands

Mainly March–October. Many migrate away, but in mild winters some stay.

Status

Fairly common. Does well around people, as long as you give them food (insects) and a bit of mess (hiding spots).