Fieldfare, Turdus pilaris
The largest and I think the most beautiful of the UK thrush species, Fieldfares are winter visitors. The numbers arriving here is dependent on the available food in Eastern Europe and Russia. They feed on our berry crop first, especially Hawthorn berries, like this one is doing. The berry has been tested for softness, as you can see the indentations from the beak. Only the tasty ripe ones will be swallowed. They are quite particular and will readily reject any berries that they deem are not up to their stringent quality control lol. This year there is a definite lack of these lovely birds in my local area.
Fieldfare are “Red Listed” under the UK Birds of Conservation Concern.
Fieldfare, Turdus pilaris
The largest and I think the most beautiful of the UK thrush species, Fieldfares are winter visitors. The numbers arriving here is dependent on the available food in Eastern Europe and Russia. They feed on our berry crop first, especially Hawthorn berries, like this one is doing. The berry has been tested for softness, as you can see the indentations from the beak. Only the tasty ripe ones will be swallowed. They are quite particular and will readily reject any berries that they deem are not up to their stringent quality control lol. This year there is a definite lack of these lovely birds in my local area.
Fieldfare are “Red Listed” under the UK Birds of Conservation Concern.