As summer's warmth fades and leaves begin their colourful transformation, a special sound echoes through the British countryside – the first sighing call of the redwing, nature's authentic herald of autumn.
The Migratory Marvel Returns
Each year, as temperatures drop across Scandinavia and Iceland, thousands of redwings embark on their remarkable journey to British shores. These beautiful thrushes, distinguishable by the striking red flash beneath their wings and the creamy stripe above their eyes, bring with them a sound that seasoned birdwatchers eagerly anticipate.
Decoding the Distinctive Call
Unlike the cheerful songs of spring birds, the redwing's autumn call carries a melancholic, almost wistful quality. Described by enthusiasts as a gentle "seep" or sigh-like whistle, this sound serves as both contact call between migrating flocks and a signature of the changing seasons.
Seasoned birdwatcher Tim Mackrill shares his excitement: "That first redwing call of autumn is always magical. It's not just hearing a bird – it's experiencing a natural phenomenon that connects us to wider environmental patterns across continents."
Where to Spot These Winter Visitors
Redwings typically favour hedgerows laden with berries, particularly hawthorn, and open fields where they can forage for insects and worms. Gardens with berry-producing shrubs often attract these visitors, offering urban dwellers a chance to witness this seasonal spectacle.
Identifying Features:
- Distinct reddish-orange flank patches
- Prominent cream-coloured stripe above the eye
- Heavily speckled breast similar to song thrushes
- Slender, slightly smaller build than other thrushes
Nature's Calendar in a Single Note
The redwing's arrival represents more than just another bird species visiting British gardens. Their appearance and distinctive calls serve as an important ecological indicator, marking the successful completion of their long migratory journey and the beginning of nature's winter preparations.
For wildlife enthusiasts and casual observers alike, taking a moment to listen for that first sighing call can transform an ordinary autumn day into an encounter with one of nature's most reliable seasonal markers.
