Song Thrushs in Italy
When the Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos) is present in Italy, when it nests, and which native Italy plants supply the food it depends on.
- Status in Italy
- Winter visitor
- Nesting season
- Does not breed here
- Size
- 23 cm, 70–90 g
When to expect song thrushs in Italy
The Song Thrush reaches Italy for the winter from breeding grounds further north and east. Mild in the south; cold, foggy winters in the Po Valley.
Mediterranean on the coasts and south, continental in the Po Valley and Alpine in the north.
Native Italy plants for song thrushs
Of the native plants we track for Italy, these 8 provide food the Song Thrush 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
Worms, insects and snails, which it smashes on an 'anvil' stone.
- Best foods: Mealworms, Soaked sultanas, Fruit.
- Feeders: Ground tray.
- Avoid slug pellets — Song Thrushes eat the snails they poison.
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked
Are song thrushs in Italy all year?
No. The Song Thrush is a winter visitor to Italy and breeds further north or east.
Which native plants help song thrushs in Italy?
Hawthorn, Rowan, Holly, Ivy, Elder, Blackthorn, Dog rose, Guelder rose are native to Italy and provide food or cover the Song Thrush uses.
Song Thrushs in other countries
Other garden birds in Italy
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.