Kazakhstan crowns Bird of the Year: the common blackbird

The common blackbird (Turdus merula) was named Kazakhstan’s bird of the year, securing 65 percent of the vote organized by the Association for the Conservation of Biodiversity in Kazakhstan. Its only rival was the mallard duck, which it surpassed by a wide margin.

Also known as the Eurasian blackbird or black thrush, this medium-sized songbird belongs to the thrush family (Turdidae). The male and female differ greatly in color: adult males are entirely black with a bright orange-yellow bill and eye-ring, while females are dark brown with a duller bill. Juvenile birds are brown with speckles.

In Kazakhstan, blackbirds are found mainly in the foothills of the Tien Shan and Dzungarian Alatau Mountains, as well as in parts of eastern Kazakhstan. Of the 11 thrush (Turdus) species present in the country, the common blackbird is unique in remaining year-round, enduring harsh winters by sheltering in thickets.  As spring approaches, males perch atop trees and are among the first to fill the air with flute-like songs, which can be heard in southern Kazakhstan as early as late February or early March.

Globally, the common blackbird is abundant and classified as a species of Least Concern on the IUCN Red List (2024 assessment). It is not listed in Kazakhstan’s Red Book and faces no immediate threats. However, as the species has adapted to urban environments in southeastern Kazakhstan, it is exposed to challenges common to city-dwelling birds, such as loss of green spaces and food sources due to chemicals and pollution.

The “Bird of the Year” campaign is part of a global effort to raise awareness about bird species, highlight conservation issues, and promote biodiversity. Kazakhstan has held the competition since 2006, with past winners including the saker falcon, steppe eagle and Scops owl. Last year’s honor was awarded to the Egyptian vulture.