Redwings in Scotland
When the Redwing (Turdus iliacus) is present in Scotland, when it nests, and which native Scotland plants supply the food it depends on.
- Status in Scotland
- Winter visitor
- Nesting season
- Does not breed here
- Size
- 21 cm, 63 g
- Delivery
- Perch Supply ships to the UK
When to expect redwings in Scotland
The Redwing reaches Scotland for the winter from breeding grounds further north and east. Short days and regular snow inland; Scandinavian Bramblings, Fieldfares and Waxwings often arrive in numbers.
Winter visitor; a few pairs breed in the Highlands.
Cool maritime in the west, more continental and drier in the east; the Highlands are markedly colder.
Native Scotland plants for redwings
Of the native plants we track for Scotland, these 8 provide food the Redwing uses:
Haws feed thrushes all winter; spring blossom supports hundreds of insect species.
Orange-red berries are a magnet for Blackbirds, thrushes and Waxwings from August.
Evergreen roosting cover and winter berries on female plants.
Late-winter berries when little else is left, plus dense nesting cover.
Late-summer berries taken by Blackcaps and thrushes.
Thorny cover that protects nests; early blossom for insects.
Hips persist into winter for thrushes and finches.
Translucent red berries in autumn.
Feeding in the garden
Berries and worms.
- Best foods: Apples, Soaked sultanas.
- Feeders: Ground tray.
- Listen for 'tseep' calls on still autumn nights as Redwings migrate in from Scandinavia.
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked
Are redwings in Scotland all year?
No. The Redwing is a winter visitor to Scotland and breeds further north or east. Winter visitor; a few pairs breed in the Highlands.
Which native plants help redwings in Scotland?
Hawthorn, Rowan, Holly, Ivy, Elder, Blackthorn, Dog rose, Guelder rose are native to Scotland and provide food or cover the Redwing uses.
Redwings in other countries
Other garden birds in Scotland
Sources
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.