Blackbird (Turdus merula)

Blackbirds are unsociable and territorial. They prefer to be alone rather than in big groups, and during the first year of its life a male blackbird will develop its own territory. This territory will be used to feed and to find a mate and breed.

At the end of the breeding season, territory divides breakdown and many birds will begin to feed outside of their territories. At the start of spring, and right through until the end of July, male blackbirds will defend their territories against all other blackbirds.

Around March, a male blackbird will begin to look for a female companion. Blackbirds as a species can rear between 2 and 3 broods of 3 to 5 eggs. Weather can have an influence on when the breeding season will occur – either bringing it forward or possibly delaying it.

Females of the species are responsible for nest building as well as incubating the clutch of eggs. Nest are located low down and often covered by trees and shrubs.