Turdus viscivorus
The Mistle Thrush, *Turdus viscivorus*, is a large, stately thrush of Europe, North Africa, and temperate Asia, easily identified by its upright stance, pale grey-brown upperparts, and heavily spotted white underparts. Measuring 27-29 cm in length with a wingspan of 42-48 cm and weighing between 95-160g, it is among the largest of European thrushes, often mistaken for a smaller fieldfare. Distinctive field marks include its bold, rounded black spots on the breast and flanks, pale underwing-co...
Found primarily in woodlands, parks, gardens, orchards, and open country with scattered trees. Adaptable to various elevations from sea level to sub-alpine regions, often preferring areas with mature trees for nesting and foraging.
Primarily omnivorous, feeding on a wide range of invertebrates such as insects, earthworms, and mollusks, complemented by berries (especially mistletoe, yew, holly), fruits, and seeds. Forages both on the ground and in trees.
A largely diurnal bird, the Mistle Thrush typically forages on the ground, employing a characteristic run-and-stop technique to locate invertebrates, but also ascends trees for berries. During the breeding season, pairs are monogamous and highly territorial, vigorously defending their nesting sit...
The Mistle Thrush boasts a wide geographical distribution, breeding across much of Europe from the Atlantic coast eastwards into temperate Asia, reaching as far as Lake Baikal and northern Iran. Its breeding range extends north into Scandinavia and south to parts of North Africa, particularly in ...
Least Concern
- The Mistle Thrush is renowned for its role in dispersing mistletoe seeds, which it regurgitates or wipes off its beak onto tree branches. - It is nicknamed the 'Stormcock' due to its habit of singing loudly from high perches even in strong winds and adverse weather. - Mistle Thrushes are fierce...