Blackbirds and Crow - HAMPSTEAD HEATH - 2012

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Mistle Thrush

Of the familyChats and thrushes (Turdidae)

A pale, black-spotted thrush - large, aggressive and powerful. It stands boldly upright and bounds across the ground while in flight, it has long wings and its tail has whitish edges. It is most likely to be noticed perched high at the top of a tree, singing its fluty song or giving its rattling call in flight.

This is a widespread bird in the UK, found almost everywhere except the highest, barest ground, and absent from the northern and western isles of Scotland. It can be seen in woodland, parkland and gardens.

Can be seen all year round. Watch for flocks in July and August.

Feeds on worms, slugs, insects and berries.

The pair below was photographed inside Highgate Gate on 11/02/2010

(Click on a slide to show enlarged image)