ExploreBird

Common Blackbird

Turdus merula

The Common Blackbird is a friendly bird with shiny black feathers and a bright yellow eye ring. They love to sing beautiful songs in gardens and parks!

Habitat: Gardens, parks, and forests

Appearance

The Common Blackbird male is entirely glossy black with a striking orange-yellow beak and eye-ring. Females are dull brown, often with a paler throat and a less vibrant beak. This distinct coloring helps tell them apart from other dark birds.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderPasseriformesFamilyTurdidaeGenusTurdus
Common Blackbird
wildlife trait badgefeathered trait badgesocial trait badgeomnivorous trait badge
Common Blackbird

Category

Bird

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5

Snaps

26

Interesting facts

Male blackbirds can learn to mimic the sounds of human phone rings or car alarms!

Some Common Blackbirds have been known to live for over 20 years in captivity!

Their scientific name, *Turdus merula*, simply means "thrush blackbird"!

They often line their nests with mud, making them super strong and cup-shaped.

Special abilities

Ability

Sound Mimicry

Common Blackbird can imitate other birds' calls and even human sounds because of its flexible vocal cords.

Ability

Ground Forager

Common Blackbird has strong legs and a sturdy bill that helps them flip leaves and dig for worms in the soil.

Ability

Vocal Storyteller

Common Blackbird can sing complex, flute-like songs from high perches, marking territory and attracting mates.

Measurements & details

Length
24-29 cm
Wingspan
34-39 cm
Weight
0.08-0.125 kg
Lifespan
2-5 years
Top Speed
45 km/h
Clutch Size
3-6
Incubation
11-14 days

Diet & Feeding

They are omnivores, eating both wriggly invertebrates from the ground and delicious fruits and berries.

Primary Foods

  • Earthworms
  • Insects
  • Snails
  • Berries
  • Fallen fruit

Foraging Method

  • Foraging

Ecological connections

eaten by

Domestic Cat

Felis catus

A common predator, especially in urban areas.

eaten by

Eurasian Sparrowhawk

Accipiter nisus

A swift bird of prey that hunts small birds.

eats

Common Earthworm

Lumbricus terrestris

A primary food source, often pulled from damp soil.

eats

Common Bramble

Rubus fruticosus

Feeds on the fruits, spreading seeds.

Traits

Also known as

BlackbirdEurasian Blackbird

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5

Blackbirds are gentle and safe to watch from a distance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Common Blackbird?

24-29 cm

What is Common Blackbird's wingspan?

34-39 cm

How much does Common Blackbird weigh?

0.08-0.125 kg

How long does Common Blackbird live?

2-5 years

How fast can Common Blackbird move?

45 km/h

What does Common Blackbird eat?

They are omnivores, eating both wriggly invertebrates from the ground and delicious fruits and berries.

Where is Common Blackbird usually found?

Gardens, parks, and forests

How does Common Blackbird hunt?

Foraging

Snap Map

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Recent Snaps

Where to spot

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