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Story: Introduced land birds

Song thrush feeding chicks

Song thrushes are common in all parts of New Zealand, except native bush. They lay their eggs in the spring and often raise up to three broods a season, but rarely in the same nest. The young nestlings are fed by both the male and female, and usually fledge after 13–15 days.

Using this item

Department of Conservation

Reference: 10030904

by Barry J. Harcourt

Sound file from the Department of Conservation

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How to cite this page

Christina Troup, Introduced land birds – Blackbirds and song thrushes, Te Ara – the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, https://teara.govt.nz/en/natural-sounds/17162/song-thrush-feeding-chicks (accessed 4 June 2026).

Story by Christina Troup, published 1 March 2009.

Comments

Janelle Wallace
02 October 2015
Can anyone tell us a possible reason for thrush chicks in a nest to all die just before fledging. The parents are busy with another nest now.
Elizabeth Kendal Riches
01 November 2014
I live in Christchurch City Centre and have a tiny back yard. However, in the evening, I can sit and hear all sorts of bird song. Your site has allowed me to identify what I hear. Thank you.
Elizabeth Rollinson
17 June 2013
I really enjoyed this website, I found it very informative and loved being able to hear the birdsong of each species. I now know what species of birds are in my garden and neighbouhood. thank you.