Mistle Thrush
Turdus viscivorus
UK Amber ListEasy to see📍 Lake District
Season
Year-round. Sings from treetops.
Best time of day
Morning. That rattling song.
Lake District
Grizedale. The valleys. That rattling song. Larger than song thrush. Round spots. Defends holly in winter.
UK population
Around 170,000 pairs. Declining.
Overview
Mistle thrushes are larger than song thrush. That rattling song. Round spots. They defend holly bushes in winter. Grizedale. The valleys. Declining.
At a Glance
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Habitat | Woodland · Parks · Farmland |
| Diet | Berries, insects, worms. |
| UK population | Around 170,000 pairs. Declining. |
| Lake District | Grizedale. The valleys. That rattling song. Larger than song thrush. Round spots. Defends holly in winter. |
| Conservation | UK Amber List |
Where to See It
Woodland, parks, farmland. Grizedale, the valleys. Larger than song thrush. Spots.
Identification
Larger than song thrush. Round spots. Grey flanks. Rattling song. Defends berries.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Woodland. That rattling song. Larger than song thrush. Round spots.
Conservation Status
UK Amber List
This species is on the UK Amber List for Birds (BoCC5), indicating moderate concern. Population monitoring and habitat management remain important for its continued recovery.
Plan your visit to the Lake District
RSPB Haweswater, Grizedale Forest, Leighton Moss. Practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.