Redwing | Reserves and species

Scientific Name:

Turdus iliacus

The Redwing is a small thrush which visits the UK in the winter to feast on berry-laden bushes in hedgerows, woodland, parks and gardens. Redwings migrate here at night - on clear evenings listen out for their 'tseep' call overhead. They can often be spotted in flocks with Fieldfares, moving from bush to bush looking for food. Apples and berry-producing bushes like Hawthorn may attract Redwings into the garden.

How to identify:

Redwings are dark brown above and white below, with a black-streaked breast and orange-red flanks and underwing. Redwings have a very smart face pattern, with a white eyebrow stripe and dark brown cheeks. Similar to the Song Thrush, but for the white eyebrow stripe and red patch under the wing.

Where to find it:

A widespread winter visitor.

How people can help:

Under 20 pairs of Redwing nest in the UK, making this bird a breeding rarity and a Red List species in the Birds of Conservation Concern review. To help protect our breeding birds, The Wildlife Trusts are working closely with farmers and landowners to promote wildlife-friendly practices. We are working towards a 'Living Landscape': a network of habitats and wildlife corridors across town and country, which are good for both wildlife and people. You can support this greener vision for the future by joining your local Wildlife Trust.

Statistics:

Length: 21cm Wingspan: 34cm Weight: 63g Average Lifespan: 2 years

Conservation status:

Classified in the UK as a Red List species under the Birds of Conservation Concern review.

Did you know?:

A tiny population of Redwings breed in the far north of Scotland, but most of our birds come from Iceland and Scandinavia in the winter.

Seasons:

Spring

Autumn

Winter

When to see

Start date:

September

End date:

April

Image: