Mistle Thrush
Turdus viscivorus
Conservation Status
Least ConcernAves · Passeriformes · Turdidae
About
The mistle thrush is a bird common to much of Europe, temperate Asia and North Africa. It is a year-round resident in a large part of its range, but northern and eastern populations migrate south for the winter, often in small flocks. It is a large thrush with pale grey-brown upper parts, a greyish-white chin and throat, and black spots on its pale yellow and off-white under parts. The sexes are similar in plumage, and its three subspecies show only minimal differences. The male has a loud, far-carrying song which is delivered even in wet and windy weather, earning the bird the old name of stormcock. Historically, the name was also sometimes spelled "missel thrush".
Fun Fact
Mistle Thrushes sing loudly in stormy weather, earning the folk name 'stormcock,' and aggressively defend mistletoe clumps as exclusive winter food caches.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Found in the milder uplands and coastal regions.
Diet
Feed mainly on invertebrates, fruit and berries.
Lifespan
21 years
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Human Disturbance