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Redwing (Turdus Iliacus)
Overview
The smallest of the UK’s true thrushes, they are winter visitors to most parts of the UK only visiting between November and April. They enjoy roaming across the open countryside.
Description
This is the smallest member of the thrush family. It has red undertones on the underside of its wings and a creamy stripe above its eyes. The back of the bird is dark chocolate in colour so are the upper sides of their wings.
Distribution
They are winter visitors in England, Wales and most of Scotland but some move northwards to Northern Scotland to spend the summer
Habitat
They roam across the countryside spending time in fields, hedgerows, orchards and parkland. They are rare garden visitors only visiting in the coldest of weather.
Breeding
Twigs are stuck together with mud and formed into a cup shape in the crook of a branch in a tree. The nest is lined with grass and lichen. Sometimes the Redwing will nest on the ground. Very few pairs nest in the UK.
Food
Insects worms snails and slugs are the main foods, they will also take berries and other fruit in winter. Redwings are ground feeders and may enjoy mealworms and sultanas.
Population Trends
Another member of the thrush family that’s population has declined in recent years.
