Blackbird  (Turdus merula)

The blackbird feeds on fruits, berries, earthworms and a large range of insects (3). Its active feeding behaviour, when leaves are thrown aside, is characteristic (5), as is its careful stalking of a lawn whilst listening with the head cocked to one side for worms (2).

The nest, a stout cup of twigs, stems, mud and dry grass (6) is built in a tree or bush mainly by the female, although the male may assist by collecting materials (3). From March between 4 and 5 bluish eggs, mottled with reddish brown are laid and incubated by the female for up to 17 days. After hatching, the young are fed by both parents and fledge after around 13 days (9).