17-5-2020 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - BLUE ROCK THRUSH (FEMALE) (Monticola solitarius)

The female blue rock thrush (Monticola solitarius) is significantly different in appearance from the vibrant blue male, featuring a more "conservative" brownish-grey plumage that provides camouflage in its rocky habitats. While they are often less conspicuous, they play the primary role in incubating eggs and caring for the young.

Appearance & IdentificationColoration: Unlike the deep metallic blue of the male, females are primarily grey-brown on their upperparts.

Underparts: Their bellies and chests are lighter and exhibit a distinctive mottled or scaly pattern (barred with brown and pale buff).

Subtle Details: Some females may show a very subtle bluish tinge on their back, wings, or tail, especially in certain light or depending on the subspecies.

Size: They are medium-sized birds, roughly the size of a blackbird, measuring approximately 21–23 cm (8.3–9.1 inches) in length.

Nesting & BreedingPrimary Incubator: The female takes the lead in incubating the eggs, a process that typically lasts between 14 and 16 days.

Egg Details: She usually lays a clutch of 3 to 5 eggs (sometimes up to 6) which are pale blue or bluish-green and often marked with fine reddish spots.

Nest Construction: Both sexes contribute to building the nest using twigs, dry grass, and fine roots, typically hidden in rock crevices, cliffs, or old stone buildings.

Broods: Depending on the region, a female may raise two to three broods per season, starting as early as late March.