Mistle thrushes

Mistle thrushes (Turdus viscivorus) are a species of thrush that can be found in Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa. They are medium-sized birds, typically reaching a length of around 25 cm and a wingspan of around 40 cm. They are grayish-brown in color with a buff-brown breast and a white belly. They have a distinctive black eye-stripe and white spots on their wings.

Meta Information

Scientific Name

Turdus viscivorus

Average Lifespan

5-6 years

Average Size

25 cm in length and 40 cm in wingspan

Similar To

Song Thrush, Fieldfare, Redwing, Blackbird

Lifecyle

Mistle thrushes usually lay their eggs in April or May and the eggs hatch after around two weeks. The young Mistle thrushes fledge after around three weeks and become independent after a month.

Diet

Mistle thrushes mostly feed on a variety of invertebrates, such as snails, earthworms, and insects. They also eat berries and fruits, including mistletoe berries.

Habitat

Mistle thrushes can be found in a variety of habitats, including woods, parks, gardens, and farmland. They are often seen perched on the tops of trees or bushes.

What is a Mistle thrush?

The Mistle thrush is a member of the thrush family and is found across Europe, Asia and North Africa. It is a medium-sized bird, measuring around 27 cm in length and weighing between 90 and 120 grams. It has a distinctive appearance, with a greyish-brown back, white underparts, and black spots on its breast. The Mistle thrush is known for its loud, melodious song, which it often sings from a high perch.
Where are Mistle thrushes found?

Mistle thrushes are found throughout Europe, Asia and North Africa, and are resident in many parts of their range. They prefer open woodland areas, but can also be found in parks and gardens, particularly during the winter months when they are more likely to come into urban areas in search of food.
What do Mistle thrushes eat?

Mistle thrushes are omnivorous and will eat a wide range of food, including insects, berries, fruit and seeds. They are particularly fond of mistletoe berries, which they will defend fiercely against other birds. During the winter months, they will also feed on worms and other invertebrates found in the soil.
What is the breeding behavior of Mistle thrushes?

Mistle thrushes breed from early March to June, and will build their nests in a variety of locations, including trees, shrubs and even on buildings. The female will lay between 3 and 5 eggs, and both parents will take turns incubating the eggs for around 13 days. Once hatched, the chicks will fledge after around 14 days and will remain with their parents for several weeks.
Are Mistle thrushes endangered?

Mistle thrushes are not currently considered to be endangered, with a stable and widespread population across their range. However, like many bird species, they are vulnerable to habitat loss and degradation, particularly in urban areas. Conservation efforts to protect their woodland habitats and reduce pesticide use can help to maintain healthy populations of Mistle thrushes.
How can I attract Mistle thrushes to my garden?

To attract Mistle thrushes to your garden, you can provide a range of food sources, such as fruit, berries and mealworms. They are also attracted to bird baths and water features, as well as nest boxes placed in suitable locations. Planting native trees and shrubs, such as hawthorn and rowan, can also provide valuable habitat for Mistle thrushes and other bird species. It is important to note that Mistle thrushes are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, and it is illegal to disturb or harm them or their nests without a license.
How can I differentiate between a Mistle thrush and a Song thrush?

Mistle thrushes and Song thrushes are both members of the thrush family and can be similar in appearance. However, there are some key differences to look out for. Mistle thrushes are larger and more robust than Song thrushes, with a longer, thicker bill. They also have a distinctive white V-shaped patch on their backs, which is not present on Song thrushes. In flight, Mistle thrushes have broader wings and a more direct flight path, whereas Song thrushes have a more undulating flight. In terms of song, Mistle thrushes have a louder, more melodious call, whereas Song thrushes have a more varied and complex song.

10 Fun Facts About

1. Mistle thrushes are the only thrushes that breed in Britain. 2. Mistle thrushes are known for their loud, melodious songs. 3. Mistle thrushes are one of the few birds that eat mistletoe berries. 4. Mistle thrushes are very territorial and will defend their territory from other birds. 5. Mistle thrushes have been known to use tools to help them find food. 6. Mistle thrushes are known for their aggressive behavior and will attack other birds if they get too close. 7. Mistle thrushes are one of the few birds that will eat the eggs of other birds. 8. Mistle thrushes are migratory birds and will travel long distances in search of food. 9. Mistle thrushes are known to eat snails by throwing them in the air and catching them. 10. Mistle thrushes are very vocal birds and can be heard singing throughout the day.