Winter Thrushes

At this time of year, we are visited by thrushes from the continent. These are, mainly, Fieldfare and Redwing. The Redwing is a small thrush, with a distinctive stripe on its head and a red patch under the wing. The Fieldfare is a larger thrush with a speckled breast and grey head. Both tend to travel in small noisy flocks. This year it seems that numbers are less than usual, but this may change if harsher weather arrives. Have you seen one yet?

Their main source of food is berries in hedgerows but, especially in severe weather or when berries run short, they can be tempted into gardens. They are quite partial to half an apple left face-up on the ground or stuck on the end of a branch or a stick in the ground. 

Fieldfare (Turdus pilaris) - Pastures Lane, Oakthorpe

Redwing (Turdus iliacus) - Oakthorpe Colliery

Wishing all a very happy Christmas, and a much-improved 2021!

Take good care

Richard

Birds from Brian

Greetings, all! I hope you are all well, and staying safe.

The weather has been more than a little grim of late, so here are a couple photos from Brian, taken of birds in his garden, to brighten your day! Thank you Brian.

I am using Brian's captions as I don't think anyone will have difficulty in identifying the species!!!

Sentry Duty on a misty morning

Another Sentry

Hang on in there - there's a light showing at the end of the tunnel. Best wishes - - - Richard