Wildlife

Wild Bird: Redwing Winter Arrival and Welfare

Redwings are winter visitors to the UK arriving from Scandinavia and Iceland, and their welfare during cold spells depends critically on food availability.

Key Facts

Redwings arrive in Britain from October onwards, with peak arrival in late October and November
In severe cold weather, redwings may gather in thousands on berried bushes and orchards
Holly, hawthorn, rowan, and ivy berries are key food sources during hard winters
Cold snaps can cause mass mortality when berry crops are exhausted before spring
Redwings occasionally visit gardens with ground feeding stations during harsh weather

Welfare Considerations

Redwings face acute welfare challenges during cold spells that follow long migratory journeys. Food stress during winter is a major driver of mortality, and berry availability in the landscape is critical. Planting berry-bearing shrubs and avoiding the removal of hedgerows provides lasting support for this and other winter thrush species.

What You Can Do

Plant hawthorn, holly, and rowan in gardens and hedgerows
Avoid cutting hedges in autumn to preserve berry crops into winter
Put out windfall apples on the ground during cold spells
Record redwing numbers and submit to BTO WeBS or Garden BirdWatch
Support habitat management that maintains berry-rich hedgerows on farmland