Thrushes (Turdidae)

Mistle Thrush

Turdus viscivorus

Length
27 cm
Weight
130 g
Clutch
3–5 eggs
Incubation
12–15 days
Fledging
14–16 days
Broods
2 per year
Nest box
Does not use enclosed boxes

Identification

  • Large, pale grey-brown thrush
  • Bold round spots across the breast
  • White underwing in flight

Loud, far-carrying song, often in storms — the 'stormcock'.

Diet and garden feeding

Worms and insects; berries, especially mistletoe, holly and rowan.

  • Best foods: Fruit, Mealworms.
  • One bird may guard a berry-laden holly all winter.

Nesting

Bulky cup high in a tree fork.

Mistle Thrushs by country

Sources

  1. Mistle Thrush — RSPB bird guide
  2. Mistle Thrush — BTO BirdFacts

Timing reflects typical patterns for the region as a whole; local dates vary with elevation and year. Check the linked eBird bar charts for your county.