Fieldfare
Turdus pilaris
Aves › Passeriformes › Turdidae › Turdus
Conservation status: least_concern
The Fieldfare is a large thrush with a distinctive blue-gray head and rump that contrasts sharply with its chestnut-brown back and speckled underparts, making it instantly recognizable in flight. This sociable bird often feeds in loose flocks on open grassland and moorland, where it hunts for invertebrates and berries with quick, energetic movements.
How To Identify
They are medium-sized, generally drab brown-gray to warm brownish thrushes. A key feature is the contrasting rust or reddish coloration noticeable on their breasts and throats.
Habitat
The fieldfare lives in farmland, hedgerows, and orchards in winter.
Behaviour
Fieldfares strip berry-laden trees in flocks and give a chacking call in flight.
Native Range
The fieldfare is native to northern Europe and across the Palearctic.
Did You Know?
Nesting Fieldfares dive-bomb predators and defecate on them — a surprisingly effective deterrent.
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