Introduction

Have you ever had the thrill of spotting the elusive Ring Ouzel? This striking bird, often dubbed the ‘mountain blackbird,’ is a fantastic find for birdwatchers and photographers alike!

Identification

The Ring Ouzel is a medium-sized thrush with a distinctive white crescent on its chest, contrasting with its black or dark brown plumage. Males are particularly striking with their jet-black feathers, while females are slightly duller with browner tones. Both sexes have a distinctive white wing bar visible in flight.

Breeding and Nesting

Breeding season for Ring Ouzels begins in April. They nest in well-concealed locations, often in rock crevices or dense vegetation. The female lays 3-5 eggs, which she incubates for about two weeks. Both parents are involved in feeding the chicks until they fledge at around two weeks old.

Conservation Status

The Ring Ouzel is currently listed as a species of ‘Red’ conservation concern in the UK due to significant population declines. Habitat loss, changes in land use, and climate change are major threats. Conservation efforts are focused on preserving their breeding habitats and understanding migration patterns.

Photography Tips

Photographing the elusive Ring Ouzel requires patience and a bit of luck. Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light and less disturbance from other visitors. Use a telephoto lens to capture detailed shots from a distance. Be prepared for quick movements, as these birds are very active and wary of humans.

My Experience

One of my most exciting birdwatching moments was spotting a group of Ring Ouzels at a local quarry. New to the area and passing through, it was fantastic to tick them off my lifer list. They were very difficult to photograph due to their active nature and the area’s popularity with dog walkers. But persistence paid off, and I managed to get some wonderful shots of these beautiful birds.