Redwing Turdus iliacus
The species is recorded annually and is most regular on autumn migration. It has been found breeding on both Spitsbergen and Bjørnøya, but this occurs seldom. It is most probably the subspecies coburni (found on Iceland and the Faeroe islands) that is most regular on Svalbard. Often seen around habitations.
Features: 19-23 cm. ♂=♀. Easily identified by its rust-red flanks. Its call is a soft buzzing sound, «syyy», in flight. Sings only at the nest site. |