Eurasian Blackbird, Turdus Merula or Lon Dubh Under Threat From Usutu Virus
- Darren McLoughlin
- Category: Guide
One of the most common garden birds in Ireland, the blackbird Turdus merula or Lon Dubh in Irish, is coming under threat from a mosquito-borne virus known as Usutu virus.
Now in Ireland, the virus has been the cause of significant population declines in the UK and other countries, London lost 50% of it's blackbird population between 2019 and 2020.
The blackbird was seen as a symbol of good luck in Ireland, especially in pairs or when it enters a house.
It was said that Saint Kevin of Glendalough, while praying inside his small cell, arms outstretched through an opening, had a blackbird land on his hand. The bird made a nest on it and laid eggs, the saint it is said, remained in position long enough for the eggs to hatch and fledge.
Seamus Heaney even wrote a poem on the legend.
Blackbirds were said to have been brought to Ireland by the legendary Finn MacCool, famous in mythology for creating the Giant's Causeway in County Antrim, from a visit to Norway where he heard their sweet whistle.
Indeed modern studies and evidence from ringed birds show that many blackbirds migrate to Ireland from Norway in winter for the milder climate.
Because it sings so loudly at dusk and dawn, the blackbird is often associated with the Otherworld, being messengers or symbolising reincarnation.