The Eurasian Blackbird, often referred to
as the Common Blackbird is a very common member of the thrush family,
“turdidae”. Like other many other birds in this family, the Eurasian Blackbird
is a talented singer that serenades females and threatens other males with its
melodious singing during the spring and summer.
Despite bearing the name, “blackbird,” it
should be noted that this bird is a true thrush and is not related to members
of the American blackbird family, “icteridae.” As one of the few completely
black species of songbirds in Europe and Asia ,
the bird’s English name is most reasonable. The male has uniformly black plumage
with a striking yellow eye-ring and yellow bill. The female is a less
attractive mix of black and brown, but still possesses the yellow bill, which
is this species diagnostic feature.
The Eurasian Blackbird is found throughout
south and central China as
far north as Shandong
province. It is not a migratory species and can be found year-round in most
part of its range. In the northern part of its range, some birds may wander
south during winter to seek out better conditions. It is generally a hardy
species, however.
This bird is a common sight in city parks
and gardens or any place that offers it its preferred foods, earthworms,
insects, and other small invertebrates. It is a versatile omnivore that also
enjoys berries and fruits.
During the summer breeding season the male
Eurasian Blackbird will attract a mate with a strange courtship display of
running and head-bobbing. After mating, the couple will build a cup-shaped nest
made of mud, grass and other vegetation. The female lays 3-5 eggs and incubates
them herself for about two weeks. Due to the accessible position of Eurasian
Blackbird nests, predators often take eggs and chicks. Despite this, this
species continues to maintain a large population, and this bird continues to be
regular attraction in city parks in all major Chinese cities from Qingdao in the north all
the way down the East Coast of China.
Photo by Brian Westland |
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