Common blackbird
Turdus merula
Turdus merula, commonly known as the Eurasian Blackbird, is a member of the thrush family, Turdidae, widely seen across the Comunidad Valenciana and characterized by its rich melodious song.
- Appearance: Males are unmistakable with glossy black plumage and a distinctive bright yellow-orange beak and eye-ring. Females, on the other hand, are brown with a more subdued appearance and often have slight mottling on the breast.
- Habitat: This versatile species thrives in various environments, from urban areas where it can be seen foraging on lawns, to more rural settings like forests and gardens throughout the Comunidad Valenciana.
- Diet: The Eurasian Blackbird's diet is varied and consists mainly of invertebrates such as earthworms and insects, as well as fruits and berries, which they are often seen foraging for.
- Behavior: Known for its beautiful song, the blackbird's call is a rich, fluty series of notes and is usually heard during the dawn and dusk. They are territorial birds, especially the males during the breeding season, and can be quite aggressive in defending their nests.
- Breeding: Breeding typically occurs from March to July. Nests are cup-shaped, usually built low in trees or shrubs, and females lay 3 to 5 eggs, which they incubate for about two weeks.
The Eurasian Blackbird, or Mirlo Común as locally known, is not only a charming sight across various natural settings in the Comunidad Valenciana but also an important part of the local biodiversity.