In this Leica Nature Blog, the Birds on the Edge Campaign, a National Lottery Heritage Funded project run by The North York Moors National Park Trust with the goal of preserving four at risk bird species in the area, pays homage to the Song Thrush.
The project aims to establish and conserve habitats for the Turtle Dove, Yellowhammer, Song Thrush, and Redstart, implement a monitoring program, and actively engage more individuals from areas like Scarborough and Bridlington to engage with the National Park and conservation. This grant, generously provided by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, will finance the four-year initiative. Its impact extends beyond the well-being of indigenous bird species; it also reaches out to a diverse audience, including both children and adults, introducing them to the wonders of nature and hands-on conservation experiences within the National Park.
The project has been running since October 2022 and we’ve already got started with restoring ponds, creating drinking pools and setting out plans for many more ponds to be restored and created this winter. We’ve been working with landowners to manage 10 special Turtle Dove plots which are specifically designed to grow the small wildflowers that Turtle Doves rely on for seeds to feed their young.
In addition to collaborating with nearby landowners, the project will involve 28 primary schools in a ‘Harry Spotter’ bird watch challenge within their school premises. This initiative serves the dual purpose of educating children about the local wildlife residing right outside their window, and offering them the chance to acquire knowledge about topics such as birdsong, migration patterns, and the collection of scientific data.
Birds on the Edge will be delivered in partnership with a range of organisations, including ARCADE, a charitable organisation based in Scarborough and Bridlington that aims to build confidence and creativity through the arts; Yorkshire Water; Forestry England; the Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty; the North York Moors National Park Authority; and North Yorkshire Council.
The Song Thrush: Nature’s Melodious Maestro
Amongst the bird species of Europe, the Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos) stands out as a remarkable songbird. With its beautiful melodies and distinctive habits, the Song Thrush has captured the hearts of bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the fascinating world of the Song Thrush, exploring its appearance, behaviour, song, habitat, and its significance in the ecosystem.
The Song Thrush is a medium-sized songbird belonging to the Thrush family. It has a combination of earthy tones in its plumage, with warm brown upper parts, pale off white underparts with a slight yellowish wash to the breast, with small dark arrow-shaped markings scattered throughout. One of the most charming qualities of the Song Thrush is their unique feeding technique of smashing snail shells on rocks to break their shells. This rock is known as the Thrushes ‘anvil’ and you can often find these rocks near to hedgerows with the tell-tale broken snail shells by the side of them. Song Thrushes also eat earthworms, insects, fruits, and berries, which reflects their requirement for damp habitats and water availability, something we are focussing on through the Birds on the Edge project is to increase feeding habitat for the Song Thrush.
The Song Thrush’s song is a true masterpiece of the avian world. It is a rich, melodious medley of phrases, each repeated two or three times before moving on to the next. The song is composed of clear, flute-like notes and varied trills, which can be heard throughout the year, but especially during the spring. They are masterful mimics and can incorporate a range of other sounds that they hear in their environment.
Song Thrushes are adaptable birds that can be found in a wide range of habitats, including woodlands, gardens, parks, and even urban areas. They are found across Europe and east about halfway through Russia, with some spending the winter in North Africa and the Middle East. Some populations, especially the more northern ones are migratory, moving south to find food in the winter. The Song Thrush is on the Amber list of birds of conservation concern in the UK with their population undergoing a 49% decrease since 1967. is not currently classified as a threatened species, it has experienced population declines in some regions due to habitat loss and changes in land use. Conservation efforts are crucial to ensure the continued well-being of this charming songbird.
In the world of birds, the Song Thrush is a true treasure, enchanting us with its melodious song, captivating appearance, and unique feeding habits. By appreciating and protecting the Song Thrush and its habitat, we can ensure that future generations can also delight in the beauty and song of this remarkable bird. So, the next time you hear the enchanting melody of a Song Thrush, take a moment to savour the magic of nature’s melodious maestro.
For more information: www.northyorkmoorstrust.uk/ourprojects/