robins
1. Bird Name
Robin, known as the American Robin (Turdus migratorius) and well-liked traditional symbol of springtime in North America.
2. Appearance
Adult male and female American Robins have a similar appearance, though the males are generally darker. Its head is black and its belly is white, but what sets it apart is its vibrantly colored reddish-orange breast. The mature Robin’s beak is yellow with a pointed shape, ideal for foraging worms and berries from the soil. Its eyes appear as dark beads accented with a thin white eye-ring. Their feathers show varying texture – sleek on the top and softer, fluffier underneath.
3. Size
Robins have an average length of about 25 cm (around 10 inches) and boasts a wingspan that can stretch approximately 35 cm (14 inches). The weight of a mature Robin ranges from 77 grams to 85 grams (2.7 to 3 ounces).
4. Habitat & Distribution
American Robins inhabit North America from Canada’s northernmost regions to Central America, covering the United States in its entirety. Their choice habitats are diverse, spanning across woodlands, gardens, meadows, city parks, and backyards. In winter, the Robin tends to travel south if the food source becomes scarce.
5. Interesting Facts
Robins are known for their unusual habit of being the “early bird” in many cultures around the world. They are typically the first birds to sing at dawn, often an hour before sunrise! Their tendency to peck at the ground has led to a discovery that robins can see earthworms under the turf. In Native American folklore, the flaming breast of the Robin is seen as a symbol of selfless acts of valor and passion.
6. Diet
Robins have a diverse diet that changes throughout the year and depending on the region. They favor fruits, berries, and invertebrates, but during breeding season their preferred food is earthworms and insect larvae.
7. Behavior & Sounds
Robins are admired for their melodic singing. Their call is a familiar sound and they often communicate with a series of high-pitched whistles. They build neat, cup-shaped nests in trees or shrubbery. The Robin’s flight is characterized by a unique pattern of rapid flapping followed by short glides.
8. Conservation Status
The conservation status of the American Robin is ranked as “Least Concern” by the IUCN due to its large and stable population.
9. Lifespan
Robins can live up to 14 years in the wild, but the median lifespan is approximately 2 years due to high mortality rates in their first year. In captivity, with appropriate care, American Robins can live longer.
10. Additional Notes
In Canada, the American Robin is known as ‘Merle d’Amérique’ in French; in Mexico, it’s called ‘Mirlo Pardo.’ They are not typically seen as a threat to human activities, but they can contract and spread West Nile virus. Their tendency to nest near houses has made them a symbol of good luck in many cultures. They play a vital role in their ecosystems as a primary consumer controlling insect population and acting as an efficient seed disperser.
