Fieldfare look-alikes
Turdus pilaris
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Fieldfare. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Mistle Thrush
Turdus viscivorus
Key differences
The Mistle Thrush is larger, paler, and has rounder, bolder spots on its breast and flanks, rather than the streaky spots of the Fieldfare. It lacks the grey head and rump, having a uniformly brown back and head. Its underwing is white, whereas the Fieldfare's is whitish with a greyish wash. Mistle Thrush has a more upright, 'proud' stance.
Song Thrush
Turdus philomelos
Key differences
The Song Thrush is smaller and browner overall, lacking the grey head and rump. Its breast spots are more arrow-shaped or V-shaped and less extensive than the Fieldfare's. Its song is much more varied and melodious, with repeated phrases.
Redwing
Turdus iliacus
Key differences
The Redwing is smaller than the Fieldfare, with a prominent creamy supercilium and a distinctive reddish-orange flank patch, which the Fieldfare lacks. Its back and head are uniformly brown, not grey and chestnut. Its call is a thin 'tseep'.
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