Photo ©2012–Andreas Trepte
Click for a larger image
Photo ©2012–Andreas Trepte
Click for a larger image
Redwing - Turdus iliacus
Family - Turdidae
The Redwing - Turdus iliacus - is a small migratory thrush in a family which also includes other birds like the Song Thrush and Blackbird. It is a relatively small bird about 20–23cm (8.3–9in) in length with a wingspan of 34–38cm (13.4–15in), it weights 50–75g (1.8-2.6oz). Both males and females are similar in colouration, upperparts are brown and mottled and has a distinctive red-orange patch beneath its wings, from which it gets its name, although this may only be spotted when in flight. The underparts are pale, with dark streaks on the chest and sides, face and throat are lighter, and the creamy white stripe above the eye, and a slightly paler stripe running down its under side.
It is a migratory bird found during the summer in the forests of northern Europe, Scandinavia and Russia, whilst in winter it migrates south, often seen in the UK, Ireland and parts of Western Europe. Occasional reports of sightings from the north-east coast of North America. It prefers habitats with dense cover, E.G. woodlands, parks, hedgerows, orchards. It is an omnivorous bird feeding mainly on insects, earthworms, berries and fruits. In winter it's diet tends more to berries, fruits, and seeds, often be seen feeding on Holly berries, Rowan and Hawthorn.
The Redwing is considered "Near Threatened" globally and is listed as "Amber" in the UK due to declines in their breeding population and the low numbers that breed in the UK where it is classed as a Red List species of conservation concern. Like many migratory birds, its population is affected by habitat loss, climate change, and human disturbance, especially in areas along its migratory path. Two subspecies are listed - T. i. iliacus, the nominate subspecies found in mainland Eurasia, and T. i. coburni found in Iceland and the Faroe Islands.
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