How to identify

The Redwing is usually a winter visitor and is the UK's smallest true thrush. Look for the creamy strip above its eye and the orange-red flank patches. They roam across the UK's countryside, feeding in fields and hedgerows, rarely visiting gardens, except in the coldest weather when snow covers the fields. Only a few pairs nest in the UK. It is listed as a Schedule 1 species of The Wildlife and Countryside Act.

Call

Redwing

Patrik Åberg / xeno-canto

Key features to look out for

  • Slightly smaller than Song Thrush 
  • Dark brown above, with red flanks and underwings 
  • Bright stripe above the eye  

Conservation status

Amber-listed. 

Where and when to see them

Difficulty level - Easy

They can be seen in our countryside, parks and nature reserves, feasting on berries in our hedgerows and trees.  

Key

  1. Resident
  2. Passage
  3. Summer
  4. Winter
* This map is intended as a guide. It shows general distribution rather than detailed, localised populations.
  1. Jan
  2. Feb
  3. Mar
  4. Apr
  5. May
  6. Jun
  7. Jul
  8. Aug
  9. Sep
  10. Oct
  11. Nov
  12. Dec

Behaviour

These birds are highly nomadic and will move around the countryside in search of fruit-laden trees, bushes and shrubs. They are quite skittish and will often take cover if disturbed, but when settled are a joy to watch as they gobble down berries.

They’re not loyal to any of their wintering sites. The birds you see this winter might be in the UK for their first and last time.  

Redwing adult feeding in berry laden tree in industrial estate
Redwing
How to identify the UK’s thrushes, including two special winter visitors

Get to know the UK’s thrushes, including the Fieldfares and Redwings that flock here for the winter.

Redwings and Fieldfares are both species of thrush and in this feature, we take a look at these and other thrushes that are found in the UK. Read on to find out more about this fascinating family of birds and for ID tips. 

Redwing adult perched in tree
Redwing
Birds of the month

Head outside and discover fascinating birds each month. Read on for top ID tips, what to listen for, and where to see them.

Key facts