The Turdus genus is a group of birds from the thrush family, encompassing many species found in Poland and across the world. The most popular species in Poland include: the Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos), the Blackbird (Turdus merula), the Fieldfare (Turdus pilaris), the Redwing (Turdus iliacus), the Mistle Thrush (Turdus viscivorus), and the Ring Ouzel (Turdus torquatus). These birds have a medium body size ranging from approximately 17 to 33 cm and a weight of 40 to 175 grams, with their appearance and plumage varying depending on the species. A common characteristic is their beautiful, melodic song and their ability to adapt to different environments – from dense forests to urban parks.
The company name Turdus comes from the Latin name for the thrush – Turdus. The company was founded out of a passion and respect for wildlife, especially birds of various species. Since 1989, Turdus has been producing natural food for wild birds, supporting their survival in a changing environment. It's not just a business, but above all a mission to care for our feathered friends and help them during the winter months when natural food sources are limited. As a result, the company has gained the trust of foresters and bird enthusiasts, by supplying products that meet the needs of wild species, including hedgehogs, squirrels, and wild ducks.
The song thrush (Turdus philomelos) has brown plumage with small, darker spots on its breast and a light belly, making it easily recognisable. The blackbird, on the other hand, is distinguished by its completely black plumage, an orange beak, and a yellow ring around its eyes. The fieldfare is a more robustly built bird, with distinctive light plumage and more prominent spots. Each species has its unique characteristics that help it survive and fill specific ecological niches.
Birds of the genus Turdus can be found in a wide range of habitats. They easily adapt to urban areas, parks, gardens, and wooded regions. In Poland, as many as six species from this group are resident breeders, meaning they regularly reproduce here, and their family behaviours can be observed. The blackbird is found in forests and towns, while the song thrush and fieldfare can also be encountered in open areas or on the edges of forests. Some species, such as the redwing, are migratory birds and appear seasonally.
The diet of thrushes is varied and changes depending on the season. In spring and summer, insects, earthworms, snails and other invertebrates dominate, providing them with essential nutrients. In autumn and winter, these birds readily eat fruits such as rowan, dogwood and dried berries, as well as seeds. In more difficult winter conditions, it is worth supporting them by offering natural food mixes, fresh water and leaving fruit-bearing plants in the garden.
Thrushes of the genus Turdus are an important part of the ecosystem. They facilitate the natural spread of seeds from many plant species, and also help to control populations of harmful insects. They are terrestrial animals, often seen foraging on the ground, and are themselves a tasty morsel for natural predators. An interesting fact is their territorial behaviour and defence of their young – despite their generally mild disposition, they can become very brave when defending their territory and offspring.
| Species | Size (cm) | Appearance | Typical habitat | Main food source |
| Mavis | 20-22 | Brown with speckles, light belly | Forests, parks, gardens | Insects, earthworms, fruit |
| Kos | 24-29 | Black with an orange beak | Forests and cities | Insects, snails, fruit |
| Mavis | 20-22 | Mouse grey, distinct spots | Forests, mountainous areas | Insects, fruits |
| Robin | 19-23 | Rough and dark plumage | Woods, thickets | Fruit, insects |
| Paszkot | 32-33 | Brown with a light bottom | Forests, meadows | Fruit, invertebrates |
| Ring ouzel | 20-23 | Brown with a collar on its neck | Mountain forests | Insects, fruits |
The blackbird has adapted well to urban life and is often seen in parks, gardens, and urban wooded areas.
In winter, thrushes mainly eat fruits, such as rowan berries or dogwood, as well as seeds. It is worth helping them then by feeding them natural foods.
Yes, especially during the breeding season they can be aggressive towards intruders, defending nests and young chicks.
Ensure natural hiding places, plant fruiting shrubs, and regularly refill the drinker and feeder with appropriate food.
Yes, some species of birds from the genus Turdus are strictly protected in Poland. For example, the song thrush (Turdus philomelos), ring ouzel (Turdus torquatus), and redwing (Turdus iliacus) have a status of strict protection.
Thrushes are beneficial because they help to disperse the seeds of various plants and control populations of insects and other pests. As a result, they support the ecological balance in forests, parks, and gardens. Their presence indicates a healthy environment, and their actions promote biodiversity. It is worth supporting them, for example, by feeding them natural food in winter, which helps them survive a difficult time, while also supporting the entire ecosystem.
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