The Redwing (Turdus iliacus) is a small to medium-sized thrush that measures between 7.5 to 9.5 inches in length with a wingspan of about 13.5 inches. It weighs approximately 1.5 to 2.5 ounces, making it one of the lighter thrush species. Males and females are similar in appearance, but males tend to be slightly larger than females.

One of the most distinguishing field marks of the Redwing is the bright red patch on its flank. This patch is bordered by a pale stripe and a black area, making it easy to identify in flight. The Redwing’s upperparts are mostly brown, while its underparts are creamy-white with dark streaks. It has a pale eyebrow and a dark eye stripe, which gives it a distinctive appearance.

The Redwing is a migratory bird that breeds in northern and central Europe, Asia, and North America. During the breeding season, it can be found in open woodland and forest edges. In the winter, it migrates to southern and western Europe, Africa, and western Asia. Large numbers of Redwings can be seen in the UK during the winter months, where they are known for their distinctive “tseep-tseep” flight call.

Redwings are primarily insectivores during the breeding season, but they switch to a diet of berries and fruit during the winter months. They can often be seen feeding on hawthorn, holly, and rowan berries in the UK. Redwings also have a habit of roosting communally in large flocks during the winter months, often in urban parks and gardens.

The Redwing is a popular species among birdwatchers and is relatively easy to spot during the winter months in the UK. Its striking red flank patch and distinctive call make it easy to identify, even from a distance. Its migratory habits also make it an interesting species to study, as researchers can track the movements of individual birds across vast distances.