Redwing

The Redwing is a small thrush with distinctive rusty-red flanks and underwing. Its upperparts are brown, while the underparts are white with dark streaks. A prominent pale stripe above the eye contrasts with its dark brown head.

Both sexes look similar, both with black eyes, a yellow bill with a black tip, and pinkish legs. Juveniles appear similar to adults but have pale streaks on the upperparts and lack the characteristic rusty flanks.

Winter plumage is slightly duller than breeding plumage, but the red flanks remain a key identifier year-round.

Redwings breed in northern Europe and Asia, from Iceland to eastern Siberia. They prefer open woodlands, forest edges, and tundra with scattered trees for nesting. During winter, they migrate south to milder climates.

In the UK, Redwings are common winter visitors, arriving in large numbers from October onwards. They can be found in a variety of habitats including fields, parks, and gardens across the British Isles. They rarely forage in towns and cities, so head to the countryside for your best chance.