Song Thrushs in Spain
When the Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos) is present in Spain, when it nests, and which native Spain plants supply the food it depends on.
- Status in Spain
- Winter visitor
- Nesting season
- Does not breed here
- Size
- 23 cm, 70–90 g
When to expect song thrushs in Spain
The Song Thrush reaches Spain for the winter from breeding grounds further north and east. Mild, wetter winters host many northern European migrants — Robins, Chiffchaffs and Blackcaps.
Mediterranean across most of the country, oceanic in the north (Galicia to the Basque Country) and semi-arid in the south-east.
Native Spain plants for song thrushs
Of the native plants we track for Spain, 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 Spain all year?
No. The Song Thrush is a winter visitor to Spain and breeds further north or east.
Which native plants help song thrushs in Spain?
Hawthorn, Rowan, Holly, Ivy, Elder, Blackthorn, Dog rose, Guelder rose are native to Spain and provide food or cover the Song Thrush uses.
Song Thrushs in other countries
Other garden birds in Spain
Sources
- Song Thrush — RSPB bird guide
- Song Thrush — BTO BirdFacts
- SEO/BirdLife — Atlas de las aves en época de reproducción
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.