Turdus philomelos Brehm, CL, 1831 · drozd plavý · Song Thrush

Distribution

It occurs across much of Europe and temperate Asia. In Slovakia it is a widespread breeding thrush from lowlands to mountain forests. Most birds migrate, returning early in spring and leaving in autumn. Individuals may winter in favourable conditions, but winter records are less routine than those of Blackbirds.

Habitat

It uses deciduous, mixed and coniferous woods, also larger gardens and parks with dense cover. Shrubby nest sites and accessible ground invertebrates are important. Singing from a treetop often reveals a bird that remains unobtrusive near the ground.

Breeding

The female builds a cup nest in a shrub or tree, smoothing the inside with a firm layer of plant material bound with saliva. She usually lays 3–5 spotted blue eggs. Both parents feed the young and may raise another brood during the season.

Food

It collects earthworms, insects, snails and other invertebrates, later adding berries. Some snails are opened by repeatedly striking their shells against a stone or another hard surface.

Interesting fact

Individual song phrases are repeated several times in succession. This pattern helps distinguish it from a Blackbird even when unseen; a suitable stone may also accumulate a small collection of broken snail shells.

Sources: Slovak Wikipedia · English Wikipedia · BTO BirdFacts