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Eurasian Blackbird

Conservation status

Least Concern

Population Trend

Increasing

Alternate Names

Common Blackbird, Blackbird

Native Habitat

Forests

Diet

Insects, Fruits

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Eurasian Blackbird

Turdus merula

The Common Blackbird is a species of Thrush family. It breeds in Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It has a number of subspecies across its large range; a few of the Asian subspecies are sometimes considered to be full species. Depending on latitude, the Common Blackbird may be resident, partially migratory or fully migratory.

The male of the nominate subspecies is all black except for a yellow eye-ring and bill and has a rich melodious song; the adult female and juvenile have mainly dark brown plumage. This species breeds in woods and gardens, building a neat, mud-lined, cup-shaped nest. It is omnivorous, eating a wide range of insects, earthworms, berries, and fruits.

Both male and female are territorial on the breeding grounds, with distinctive threat displays, but are more gregarious during migration and in wintering areas. Pairs will stay in their territory throughout the year where the climate is sufficiently temperate.

Regional Names
  • French:
    Merle noir
  • Marathi:
    कस्तुरी
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Taxanomy

PASSERIFORMES
TURDIDAE
Turdus merula

Quick Facts
  • It is the national bird of Sweden.