Mistle Thrush
NameMistle Thrush
Common NameMistle Thrush
Scientific NameTurdus viscivorus
FamilyTurdidae
Wingspan (cm)45
Length (cm)28
Weight (g)120
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are grey-brown, with a paler head and a distinctive pale supercilium. Underparts are white to buff, heavily marked with bold, rounded black spots, particularly dense on the breast and flanks. The undertail coverts are white.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a loud, fluty, and melancholic series of phrases, often delivered from a prominent perch. It also has a distinctive rattling alarm call, often described as 'churr-churr-churr'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across most of Europe, temperate Asia, and parts of North Africa. Northern populations are migratory, moving south for winter, while southern populations are largely resident.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size for a thrush, Upright posture, Heavily spotted breast and flanks, Pale undertail coverts, Grey-brown upperparts, Pale supercilium
Description
The Mistle Thrush is a large, pale thrush with an upright posture, often seen foraging on lawns or in open woodlands. It is known for its bold and territorial behavior, especially when defending food sources like mistletoe berries.
