Ring Ouzel
Turdus torquatus
Overview
The mountain blackbird. Ring ouzels breed on the crags. Langdale, Borrowdale, Helvellyn. That white breast band is the key. They're shy. You'll hear the chack call before you see them.
At a Glance
| Order | Passeriformes |
| Family | Turdidae |
| Habitat | Upland crags · Boulder fields · Rocky gullies |
| Diet | Insects, worms, berries |
| UK population | Around 6,000 breeding pairs. Declining. Upland specialist. |
| Lake District | Breed on crags across the Lake District. Langdale and Borrowdale are reliable. The mountain blackbird. |
| Conservation | UK Red List |
Where to See It
Upland crags and boulder fields. Langdale, Borrowdale, the Helvellyn range. Look for them around rocky terrain above the treeline.
Identification
Blackbird-sized. Black with white breast band. Female duller. Distinctive chack call.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Walk the high crags in April and May. They're territorial then. Listen for the call. Keep your distance.
Conservation Status
UK Red List
This species is on the UK Red List for Birds (BoCC5), indicating serious concern about its population decline or unfavourable conservation status. Monitoring in the Lake District contributes to national population tracking.
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.