- Turdus philomelos
Identification
Song Thrushes, at about 22–23 cm long and 70–90 g in weight, are smaller than Eurasian Blackbirds, Turdus merula. Sexes are similar, with plain brown backs and neatly spotted underparts. The breast is washed with buff.
Distribution
It is commonly found in well-vegetated woods and gardens over all of Europe south of the Arctic circle, except Iberia. They have also been introduced to New Zealand and Australia. They are common and widespread in New Zealand however in Australia only a small population around Melbourne survives from the original introduction in the mid-19th century. Many birds move south during the winter, although some western populations are resident. This species has also been introduced in other parts of the world.
Taxonomy
Habitat
Woods, hedges, gardens, tends to avoid wide open spaces.
Behaviour
They do not form flocks, although several birds may be loosely associated in suitable habitat. Often rather tame.
Song: very loud, consisting of short phrases repeated 2-4 times.
Breeds: lush woodland, parks and well-vegetated gardens.
Diet: snails, insects, Worms, Fruit, Berries. They often use a favourite stone as an "anvil" to smash snail shells against.
Nesting: in bushes or hedges, laying four or five eggs (bright glossy blue with black spots) in a neat cup-shaped nest lined with clay. The female incubates for about 14 days; the young fledge in about the same time. Song Thrushes may raise two or three broods in a year.
Bird Song
<flashmp3>Turdus philomelos (song).mp3</flashmp3>
Listen in an external program
