Which non-thrush species is mentioned as a potential source of confusion for North American observers when identifying the Redwing?
Answer
The Red-winged Blackbird (*Agelaius*)
A final point of caution noted for cross-continental identification involves species that share similar names but are not closely related members of the *Turdus* thrush family. Specifically, the Red-winged Blackbird, classified as an *Agelaius*, is mentioned as a potentially confusing duplicate. This bird is distinctly different, characterized by black plumage accented with red and yellow shoulder patches, distinguishing it entirely from the subtle markings and coloration schemes of the Redwing or other European thrushes.
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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?