As part of the RSPB Big Garden Birdwatch, I've created a series of videos to help you ID some of my visitors, here in South Wales.
Song thrush
Welsh: Bronfraith
Physical Characteristics
Size: About 20-23 cm (8-9 inches) in length, with a wingspan of 33-36 cm (13-14 inches).
Plumage:
Upperparts are warm brown.
Underparts are creamy white with dark, rounded spots, especially on the chest and belly.
Beak: Straight and slightly pointed, suitable for its varied diet.
Legs: Pale pink or brownish.
Habitat
Found in a wide range of habitats, including:
Woodlands
Gardens
Parks
Farmlands
Prefers areas with plenty of trees and shrubs for shelter and nesting.
Behaviour
Diet:
Omnivorous, eating earthworms, snails, insects, and fruit.
Known for its unique habit of breaking snail shells by hitting them against a hard surface, often referred to as a "snail anvil."
Song:
Famous for its clear, melodious song, which often includes repeated phrases.
Typically sings from prominent perches, especially during breeding season to attract mates and defend territory.
Activity:
Primarily active during the day.
Moves in short bursts when foraging on the ground.
Reproduction
Breeding Season: Usually starts in late March and can last through July.
Nesting:
Builds a cup-shaped nest, often lined with mud, in shrubs, trees, or hedges.
Eggs:
Lays 4-5 pale blue eggs with black or reddish-brown speckles.
Incubation: Lasts about 13-15 days, with the female primarily responsible for incubation.
Fledging: Chicks leave the nest around 12-14 days after hatching.
Conservation Status
The song thrush is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, but its population has declined in some areas due to habitat loss, agricultural practices, and predation by domestic cats.
Conservation efforts include habitat preservation and encouraging garden-friendly environments.
Cultural Significance
The song thrush has been celebrated in literature and art for centuries due to its enchanting song.
Featured in works by poets such as Thomas Hardy ("The Darkling Thrush") and in various European folklore.