Ring Ouzel Vs Blackbird: Key Differences Explained

It’s easy to see why many people confuse Ring Ouzels and Blackbirds especially when seen from a distance. They’re both relatively small black birds and both members of the Thrush family. Which means they are of a similar shape as well.

However, there are enough differences to make a positive ID possible for both species. In this article we’ll take a closer look at both of these interesting birds and highlight their many differences. Keep reading to find out more.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

Ring Ouzels can be identified by the white crescent or “ring” on their otherwise black breasts
Blackbirds are black all over with yellow bills and a yellow ring around their eyes
Ring Ouzels are summer visitors to the UK
Blackbirds are year round residents
Ring Ouzels are typically found in upland and mountainous regions
Blackbirds are found in a variety of habitats including; woodlands, gardens, parks and hedgerows

What Is The Difference Between A Ring Ouzel And A Blackbird?

The Ring Ouzel (Turdus torquatus) and the Common Blackbird (Turdus merula) are two distinct species of thrushes that are often confused due to their similar appearance, but they have several key differences which include;

Visual Differences

Male Ring Ouzels are mainly black but have a distinctive white crescent or “ring”around their upper breast which is why they’re called Ring Ouzels. They also have pale-edged wing feathers which can look like scales from a distance.

Females and juveniles are a more brownish colour but still have that white crescent although it might not be as bright. Ring Ouzels are slightly larger and slightly slimmer than Blackbirds and they have a longer wingspan as well.

Male Blackbirds are completely black and have a bright yellow or orange bill and eye ring. Females are dark brown and have a duller bill. Their wings are completely black (or brown in the female) and lack the pale edges of the Ring Ouzel.

Blackbirds are slightly smaller and more robust than Ring Ouzels.

Differences In Habitat

The preferred breeding ground of the Ring Ouzel is in upland and mountainous regions typically with rocky areas and sparse vegetation. They are often spotted in the moorlands of northern and western Europe.

During winter, they migrate to southern Europe and North Africa. Ring Ouzels are known to travel significant distances between their breeding and wintering grounds.

Blackbirds are more versatile and are found in a wide range of habitats including; woodlands, gardens, parks and hedgerows all across Europe as well as parts of Asia and North Africa. There are now Blackbirds that have become residents in Australia and New Zealand too.

During winter most stay as residents in their breeding grounds, but those in the far north migrate to warmer southern climes.

Nests & Eggs

Ring Ouzels prefer to nest in remote upland sites often on steep or rocky terrains whilst Blackbirds nest in a variety of sheltered lower-elevation locations often close to human habitation. Ring Ouzel nests are robust and well-camouflaged, made mainly of natural materials like grass and moss, while Blackbird nests are more structured, with a smooth mud lining.

The nests of Ring Ouzels often appear to be less refined and more integrated into their natural surroundings and will blend in well with the rocky or grassy environment.

Blackbirds nests are typically more rounded and well formed with a smooth, firm inner cup that appears more stable than that of the Ring Ouzel.

Ring Ouzels usually start their breeding season in April and end in July whereas Blackbirds typically start their breeding season in March and end in August.

Ring Ouzel eggs are pale blue or greenish blue with reddish-brown freckles while Blackbird eggs are similar in colour but have more reddish-brown speckles that can make the eggs appear brown from a distance. Ring ouzel eggs are slightly larger than Blackbird eggs.

Although the average clutch size for both species is around 3 to 5 eggs, most Ring Ouzel pairs will typically only have one brood per year whereas Blackbirds often produce 2 or 3 broods each year.

Both parents care for the young in both species but Ring Ouzel nests are often well hidden and difficult to observe. Whereas Blackbird nests are typically more exposed and closer to human habitation making it easier to observe them.

Bird Calls

Male Ring Ouzels sing a series of plaintive, fluty notes from a low perch or even whilst flying. Their song is similar to that of the Blackbird but is more melancholy and less varied.

They have a loud “tac-tac-tac” alarm call and a softer “cherr” call which is used for communication.

Blackbirds are known for their rich, melodious song which is often heard from a high perch. Their song is loud and confident, with a low pitch and is a series of short fluty verses.

Their alarm call is completely different to their song and is a clattering sound made up of shrieks as it flies away from danger. They can also make a series of “chuk” sounds if they are perched and detect an intruder or potential predator.

Size & Weight

Ring Ouzels are around 23 to 24 cm in length with a wingspan of around 38 to 42 cm. Blackbirds are similar in size with an average length of around 24 to 25 cm and a wingspan of around 34 to 38.5 cm.

Ring Ouzels weigh around 95 to 130 grams whilst Blackbirds weigh around 80 to 100 grams.

Although Blackbirds are slightly smaller than Ring Ouzels they do have a more robust appearance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a ring ouzel and a blackbird?

The main difference between a Ring Ouzel and a Blackbird is that Ring Ouzels have a white crescent or “ring” on their otherwise black breast. Whereas Blackbirds are black all over.

What birds are often mistaken for Blackbirds?

The birds most often mistaken for Blackbirds are Ring Ouzels. This is because they look similar to Blackbirds although they are slightly smaller and slimmer. However, seen up close, Blackbirds are all black whereas Ring Ouzels have a white breast “ring” and the edges of their wing feathers make them look almost scale-like.

How do you identify a Blackbird?

Male Blackbirds are entirely black with a yellow bill and a yellow ring around their eyes. Females are dark brown with slight streaking on the chest and throat. Juveniles tend to look like females but some have ginger streaks.