Reply To: Blackbird ‘Police Siren’ vocalisations

[Matthew Strahan]

#2690

Thanks Dan. Yes I’ve heard starlings mimic oystercatchers, curlews and lapwings.
There was an article in a tabloid newspaper not long ago about a blackbird making a similar call but I cant remember what the outcome of it was. It was driving the neighbourhood mad if I remember correctly.
Several dog walkers who know me have commented to me about this particularly bird. My human interpretation is that it has lost its mate or cant get a mate. I dont think its mimicry, although the location is within audible distance of an A road and passing traffic. But this bird sounds to me like its trying to getting a message across. It went on for weeks last year.

Thanks
Matthew.