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Sound clips and movies require Adobe Flash player. Latin nameTurdus merula FamilyChats and thrushes (Turdidae) OverviewThe males live up to their name but, confusingly, females are brown often with spots and streaks on their breasts. The bright orange-yellow beak and eye-ring make adult male blackbirds one of the most striking garden birds. One of the commonest UK birds, its mellow song is also a favourite. Where to see themFound everywhere in gardens and countryside and from coasts to hills, although not on the highest peaks. When to see themAll year round. What they eatInsects, worms and berries. Estimated numbers
* UK breeding is the number of pairs breeding annually. UK wintering is the number of individuals present from October to March. UK passage is the number of individuals passing through on migration in spring and/or autumn. Distribution
Please note that the map is only intended as a guide. It shows general distribution rather than detailed, localised populations. Find out moreAudio is from commercial recordings Bird Songs and Calls of Britain and Europe on 4 CDs or Bird Sounds of Europe & North-west Africa, copyright WildSounds & CEBA (www.wildsounds.com, (UK) +44 (0) 1263 741100) |
 Male  Female  Juvenile Similar birdsHelp the BlackbirdThe RSPB is working for a better environment for birds and people. Join today and add your voice. |
Blackbird on drainpipe nest at the Lodge - (RSPB)
Blackbird standing in short grass - Sue Tranter (rspb-images.com, Ref: D_2006_20446_0026 )
Bird illustrations by Mike Langman (RSPB)