Blackbird (Turdus merula) a.k.a.: Common blackbird

The blackbird is one of the commonest birds in Britain.

The males are black, but females are brown, often with spots and streaks on their breasts. The male has a bright orange-yellow beak and eye-ring and is a very attractive garden bird. The blackbird is one of the commonest birds in Britain.

The length is 24-25 cm; wingspan 34-38.5 cm, and they weigh 80-125g

Blackbirds like to live in woodland and they like areas with bushes, shrubs and trees, and nearby open ground and short grass. They are often found in gardens and in the countryside, and along coasts and hills, although they do not live on the highest peaks. They can be seen all year round.

Blackbirds feed on Insects, worms and berries.

The song, a favourite of many people, is fluty and mellow. The common call is a 'chink chink' sound, and it's alarm call is a ringing, clattering noise.

The female lays 3-5 eggs which incubate for 12-14 days. The young fledge after 14 days.

The blackbird can live up to 20 years.