Siberian Thrush

Overview

The Siberian thrush (Geokichla sibirica) is a member of the thrush family, Turdidae, that breeds in the taiga of Siberia. It is a strongly migratory species, with most individuals moving to southeastern Asia during the winter, although it is occasionally a rare vagrant to western Europe. This bird is noted for being very secretive in its behaviour.

Identification

• Similar in size to the song thrush.
• The male is dark blue-grey above and below, featuring a white stripe above the eye and a white lower belly and flanks.
• The female is much browner, with a buff stripe above the eye.
• In flight, both sexes display a striking black band on the white underwings.

Habitat

This species breeds in the taiga forests of Siberia. It exhibits strong migratory behaviour, moving to southeastern Asia for the winter, though it may appear as a very rare vagrant in western Europe.

Diet

The Siberian thrush is omnivorous, consuming a wide range of insects, earthworms and berries.