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Autumn is a time of change in the British countryside, and this season sees an abundance of bird activity. As many migratory birds leave for warmer climates, others arrive in the UK, making autumn an exciting time for birdwatching. During this transitional period, you'll find that some bird species are particularly active, preparing for the colder months ahead. From small garden visitors to large waders, autumn offers the perfect opportunity to observe birds at their busiest.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the birds that are most active in autumn and provide useful tips on how to identify them. Whether you’re an experienced birder or a beginner, understanding the behaviours and key identifying features of these autumnal birds will enrich your wildlife-watching experience.
Birds Most Active in Autumn
Redwing (Turdus iliacus)
Identification: A small thrush with a distinctive white stripe above its eye and red patches under its wings.
Habitat: Redwings are often seen in hedgerows, woodlands, and open fields.
Behaviour: Redwings arrive in the UK during autumn to escape colder climates in Scandinavia and Iceland, feeding on berries and worms.
Fieldfare (Turdus pilaris)
Identification: Larger than a redwing, fieldfares have grey heads, brown backs, and speckled chests.
Habitat: Like redwings, fieldfares are found in open fields and hedgerows, often flocking with other thrushes.
Behaviour: Fieldfares are migratory birds that travel to the UK in autumn, and they can often be seen feeding on fallen fruit and berries.
Goldcrest (Regulus regulus)
Identification: The UK’s smallest bird, goldcrests are olive-green with a striking yellow or orange crest.
Habitat: They are often found in coniferous woodlands but also frequent gardens during autumn.
Behaviour: Despite their small size, goldcrests are active throughout autumn, foraging for insects and seeds.
Siskin (Spinus spinus)
Identification: Siskins are small finches with streaky yellow-green plumage and a distinctive forked tail.
Habitat: You’ll often spot siskins in birch and alder trees, particularly in woodlands and gardens.
Behaviour: These sociable birds often form flocks in autumn as they search for seeds.
How to Identify Autumn Birds
Size and Shape: One of the easiest ways to identify birds is by size and shape. For example, thrushes like redwings and fieldfares are medium-sized birds with plump bodies, while the goldcrest is tiny and delicate.
Plumage: Many birds have distinct autumn plumage that helps with identification. Look for key features such as the red patches under the wings of redwings or the yellow crest of a goldcrest.
Behaviour: Bird behaviour is a great clue. Watch how they feed, whether they are alone or in flocks, and how they interact with their surroundings.
Habitat: Knowing where to look can greatly improve your chances of spotting specific species. For example, siskins are more likely to be seen in wooded areas, while fieldfares prefer open fields.
Best Places for Autumn Birdwatching
Wetlands and Nature Reserves: Locations like RSPB Titchwell Marsh and the Norfolk Broads are excellent spots for observing migratory birds.
Woodlands: Autumnal woodlands are perfect for spotting species like goldcrests, siskins, and woodpeckers.
Gardens and Parks: For those who prefer birdwatching closer to home, gardens and parks offer a variety of birds, from robins to blackbirds.
Conservation Tips
Birds face many challenges as they prepare for winter, including food shortages. Helping our feathered friends by setting up bird feeders in your garden is a great way to support them during this time of year. Choose high-energy foods like sunflower hearts and fat balls.
A great place to get your bird food and feeders from is Garden Wildlife Direct.
You can also contribute to citizen science projects by recording bird sightings through apps such as eBird or participating in the RSPB’s Big Garden Birdwatch.
Autumn is one of the best times to observe the fascinating behaviours of British birds. Whether you’re watching a redwing hop through a hedgerow or a goldcrest flitting through the trees, there’s always something magical about autumn birdwatching. So grab your binoculars, head out to your nearest reserve, and take in the sights and sounds of these beautiful birds.
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