For the reconnaissance aircraft, see SR-71 Blackbird.

The Blackbird or Common Blackbird (Turdus merula) is a European member of the thrush family Turdidae.

It is common in woods and gardens over all of Europe and much of Asia south of the Arctic Circle. Populations are resident except for northern birds which move south in winter.

Blackbirds are 23.5 to 29 cm in length. They are omnivorous, eating a wide range of insects, worms and berries. They nest in bushes or similar, laying several (usually 4) bluish- green-grey eggs with brown reddish marks in a neat cup-shaped nest.

They do not form flocks, although several birds may be loosely associated in suitable habitat.

Adult males are all black except for a yellow eyering and bill. The male sings its varied and melodious song from trees, rooftops or other elevated perches.

The female and juvenile have brown plumage and lack the bright yellow bill and eye-ring of the male.

The Blackbird has been introduced to many parts of the world outside its native range. In Australia and New Zealand it is considered a pest and has an effect on natural ecosystems.

The Blackbird is not related to the North American blackbirds, such as Red-winged Blackbird or Brewer's Blackbird, which are Icterids, family Icteridae. The name "blackbird" is occasionally mis-applied to other unrelated dark colored birds as well.

Photos

A male Blackbird attempts to chase off a male Kestrel that has landed too close to its nest

See also

• blackbirding in New Guinea and the US
• Blackbird is also the name of a song by The Beatles which features a recording of a blackbird singing.