What specific feature of the Redwing (*Turdus iliacus*) is noted to be potentially more reliable for identification than its flank patches when the bird is stationary?

Answer

The brilliant, unmistakable reddish-orange hue flashing from its underwing during flight

While the Redwing possesses visible rusty-red patches on its flanks, which are a helpful marker, the text emphasizes that the flash of color on the underwing during flight is perhaps even more reliable for immediate separation from species like the Song Thrush or Mistle Thrush. When the Redwing takes flight, its hidden underwing feathers reveal a brilliant reddish-orange hue that is unmistakable. Since the bird might be obscured by leaf litter when standing, this vivid, transient flash of color provides a characteristic feature that is absent in the underwings of the Mistle Thrush and Song Thrush.

What specific feature of the Redwing (*Turdus iliacus*) is noted to be potentially more reliable for identification than its flank patches when the bird is stationary?

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BTO Garden BirdWatch - Telling apart Redwing and Fieldfare

Related Questions

What is cited as the absolute best field mark for positive identification of a Redwing (*Turdus iliacus*)?How does the Fieldfare (*Turdus pilaris*) reveal a feature in flight that the Redwing lacks?What visual characteristic defines the breast spotting pattern of the Song Thrush?Which feature indicates that a spotted thrush observed is a Mistle Thrush rather than a Song Thrush?What specific feature of the Redwing (*Turdus iliacus*) is noted to be potentially more reliable for identification than its flank patches when the bird is stationary?What specific foraging behavior is frequently associated with the Song Thrush, helping to rule out the Redwing?When comparing the breast coloration of the Fieldfare and Redwing, how is the Fieldfare's breast described relative to the Redwing's?Which non-thrush species is mentioned as a potential source of confusion for North American observers when identifying the Redwing?What distinguishing feature marks the Fieldfare's head, setting it apart from the Redwing's prominent facial stripe?What general characteristic is cited as the defining feature of the thrush family breast pattern in many regions?
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