Redwing
NameRedwing
Common NameRedwing
Scientific NameTurdus iliacus
FamilyTurdidae
Wingspan (cm)34
Length (cm)22
Weight (g)62.5
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are plain brown, while the underparts are white with heavy dark streaking on the breast and flanks. A striking creamy-white supercilium extends above the eye, contrasting with a dark eye-stripe. The most distinctive feature is the bright reddish-orange patch on the flanks and underwing coverts.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a fluty, melancholic series of whistles, often described as 'tsee-tsee-tsee' followed by a warbling phrase. The flight call is a high-pitched 'seep' or 'tseep', and alarm calls are sharp 'chick' notes.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across northern Europe and Asia, from Iceland and Scandinavia eastward to Siberia. Winters in western and southern Europe, North Africa, and parts of the Middle East.
Identifying FeaturesReddish-orange flanks, Prominent pale supercilium, Spotted breast, Thrush-like shape
Description
The Redwing is a small thrush, easily recognized by its distinctive reddish flanks and prominent pale supercilium. It is a migratory species, breeding in northern Europe and Asia and wintering further south, often foraging in flocks.
