Redwing

Over the past week, flocks of Redwing have been observed passing over the reserve. These beautiful small thrushes migrate by night in loose flocks and their call can be heard as they pass overhead. In autumn, they gather along the Scandinavian coast at dusk before setting off on a single 500 mile flight across the North Sea to the UK. 

Some redwings come from Iceland to winter in Scotland and Ireland. Others come from Russia and Scandinavia to winter in southern England and further south in Europe. This juvenile was caught and ringed this morning by reserve staff and will hopefully be the first of many!