Blackbird  (Turdus merula)

The blackbird is very widespread throughout most of Britain, with the exception of the Scottish Highlands (4). During winter there is massive immigration of blackbirds from Scandinavia, Germany, the Baltic States, and parts of Russia and Finland (4). Certain populations of British blackbirds also have strong migratory tendencies, with many Scottish birds spending the winter in Ireland (4). The British population has been declining since the 1970s, but may now be recovering (7). The blackbird is distributed from Iberia throughout temperate Europe, to Russia, and through Turkey, northern Iran, and the Himalayas, reaching into China (3).

Able to successfully exploit a large range of habitats, from city centres to highland moors, including woodland, gardens, copses, and parks (3).