Fieldfares are large, colourful thrushes, much like a mistle thrush in general size, shape and behaviour. They stand very upright and move forward with purposeful hops. They are very social birds, spending the winter in flocks of anything from a dozen or two to several hundred strong. These straggling, chuckling flocks that roam the UK's countryside are a delightful and attractive part of the winter scene.
Key ID Features:
Large thrush often seen with Redwing, it's 'chuckling' song distinctive as it moves in feeding flocks.
The brown back sits between an ash grey head narrow back panel.
It has a black tail and boldly chevroned flanks frame a whitish belly and ochre breast. and neck.
In flight the mostly white underwings and grey rump are distinctive.
Overview
Scientific name: Turdus pilaris.
Family: Chats and thrushes (Turdidae)
Where to see them:
Best looked for in the countryside, along hedges and in fields. Hawthorn hedges with berries are a favourite feeding area. In late winter grass fields, playing fields and arable fields with nearby trees and hedges are a favourite place. May come into gardens in severe winters when snow covers the countryside.
Seen in UK:
They begin to arrive from October and numbers build up as the winter progresses. Birds start to return in March and some may stay into May.
What they eat
Insects, worms and berries.
Text (c) RSPB, used with permission
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Location: Edington, Wiltshire
Photographer: Tim Tapley
