The males live up to their name but, confusingly, females are brown often with spots and streaks on their breasts. The juvenile is similar to the adult female but is more spotted on its underparts and has narrow flecks on its upperparts. The bright orange-yellow beak and eye-ring make adult male blackbirds one of the most striking garden birds. One of the commonest UK birds, its mellow song is also a favourite.

Found everywhere in gardens and countryside and from coasts to hills, although not on the highest peaks.

All year round.

Resident British breeding bird.

Common and widespread in Britain

Common in Leicestershire and Rutland.