Strolling through the countryside near Rheidt, Niederkassel, the crisp air carried a melody of birdsong, interwoven with the sharp, repetitive calls of a single bird only some days ago. It was the Northern Mockingbird (Mimus polyglottos). This rare vagrant has now not been observed for some time. Even thorough searches were unsuccessful, although the conditions have certainly not been ideal recently with sometimes strong, gusty winds. It was last seen at the known location on January 22, 2025; the day before, however, it was seen in an area nearby. But this area cannot be fully seen. However, the Common Blackbird (Turdus merula) have remained undisturbed recently, whereas the garden mockingbird had previously always quickly and aggressively chased them away. This is possibly an indication that the mockingbird is actually no longer present at the known location.This vocal virtuoso, known for its remarkable ability to mimic other birds and environmental sounds, dominated the orchard with an impressive display of territoriality and feeding behavior.
The Northern Mockingbird exhibits pronounced territorial aggression, particularly in defense of its feeding grounds. This behavior has been evident in its interactions with Common Blackbird in Rheidt as well. The Blackbirds repeatedly received unambiguous expulsions from the vicinity of the apple tree row. Upon their arrival, the Mockingbird engaged in direct aerial attacks, swiftly reclaiming its space. Such territorial assertiveness is a characteristic trait of the species, especially during foraging.
In the past, the bird primarily fed on fallen Apples (Malus domestica), taking advantage of the abundant fruit scattered beneath the trees. While fruit constitutes a significant portion of its diet during this season, the mockingbird also ventures into the adjacent field in search of invertebrates, supplementing its nutritional intake with arthropods and other small prey. This omnivorous feeding strategy ensures a varied diet, contributing to the species’ adaptability in different habitats.
Observing Mimus polyglottos in this rural setting highlights its ecological role as both a seed disperser and a controller of invertebrate populations. Its territoriality, vocal prowess, and opportunistic feeding behavior make it a fascinating subject for avian enthusiasts and researchers alike.
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