The Fieldfare, a robust thrush, is a familiar sight across northern Europe during breeding season, migrating in sizable groups to western Europe, including Britain and Ireland, for the winter. While it typically nests along woodland perimeters, it adapts to various habitats during migration, from open fields to hedgerows and gardens.
During winter, Fieldfares often join forces with other thrush species, such as Redwings, forming large, nomadic flocks known for their voracious appetite for berries. In harsh weather, they seek sustenance in gardens, showing a particular affinity for windfall apples.
Resembling the Mistle Thrush in size and build, the Fieldfare stands out with its striking plumage of maroon, grey, yellow, white, and black. Its raucous 'chak, chak, chak' call is unmistakable, echoing through the winter landscape. While sexes appear similar, careful observation reveals subtle distinctions.
The male Fieldfare, depicted on the right, boasts a distinguished appearance with a dove-grey head accented by a faint white stripe above the eye, prominent streaks on the crown, and a defining black line encircling the cheeks. Its mantle and wings exhibit a subdued reddish-brown hue, complemented by dark-centred tertials and blackish primaries. A grey rump and black tail complete its elegant profile.
Distinctive black arrowheads adorn the underparts, extending from the chin to the rear flanks, while the breast showcases a subtle yellowy-buff wash, contrasting with the pristine white belly. In contrast, the female Fieldfare, shown on the left, features finer black streaks on the crown and generally presents a more muted appearance. Her mantle and wings lean towards a browner tone, while the head, rump, and breast display paler hues with fewer prominent black markings.
Encountered frequently in expansive, loosely arranged groups, the Fieldfare's unpredictable and meandering flight path serves as a notable characteristic for identification in the field. Upon closer inspection, the prominent white underwing becomes readily apparent. Noteworthy field attributes include the grey rump, black tail, and the distinctive black-speckled reddish hue adorning the upperparts.
A common sight of the Fieldfare is observing them perched, facing away, with wings relaxed and tail subtly angled. This posture highlights the striking contrast between the russet-colored mantle, the grey rump and head, and the dark-toned tail, making for an instantly recognizable appearance.
A juvenile or first-winter Fieldfare exhibits a more subdued appearance compared to adults. Its back is tinged with brown, featuring feathers with dark centers and faint white outlines. The underparts display a subtle buff hue, and the black markings are less pronounced and defined.
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