Varied Thrush
Ixoreus naevius
The Varied Thrush is a rare winter visitor to Britain, typically seen in the western and northern parts of the country, particularly in woodland and garden areas with dense undergrowth. It is most likely to be spotted during the months of October to April, when individuals from North America migrate to Britain.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Varied Thrush in the field.
The Varied Thrush can be identified by its distinctive orange and brown plumage, with a grey chest and belly, as well as its rounded body shape and long legs. Its head and back are a mix of brown and grey, with a distinctive orange stripe above the eye.
The Varied Thrush is slightly smaller than a Song Thrush, but larger than a Redwing.
The male Varied Thrush has a distinctive orange and brown plumage, with a grey chest and belly, and a brown back with a greyish tint, with no significant seasonal variation.
The female Varied Thrush is similar to the male, but with a slightly more subdued colouration, and a browner tone to the back and wings.
The Varied Thrush has a distinctive, whistled call that sounds like a series of descending phrases, often described as a melancholic or haunting sound.
The Varied Thrush is a ground-dwelling bird that forages for insects, fruits, and seeds, often in dense undergrowth, and has a distinctive, deliberate flight style, with a slow and steady wingbeat.
The Varied Thrush can be confused with the Song Thrush or the Redwing, but can be distinguished by its distinctive orange and brown plumage, and its grey chest and belly, as well as its larger size and more rounded body shape.
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