Introduction
The American robin is one of the most recognizable birds in North America, celebrated for its vibrant appearance and beautiful song.
Characteristics
- Scientific Name: Turdus migratorius
- Family: Turdidae
- Size: 9-11 inches (23-28 cm) in length
- Wingspan: 12-16 inches (30-41 cm)
- Weight: 2.7-3 ounces (77-85 grams)
Appearance
- Coloration:
- Distinctive orange-red breast
- Grayish-brown back and wings
- White throat with black streaks
- Dark head with white eye rings
Habitat and Distribution
- Found across North America, from Canada to Mexico
- Common in gardens, parks, forests, and suburban areas
- Adapts well to both urban and rural environments
Behavior and Diet
- Diet:
- Primarily insects and earthworms
- Feeds on fruits and berries, especially in winter
- Behavior:
- Known for ground foraging and a hopping gait
- Territorial during breeding season
- Song:
- Melodious and rhythmic
- Used for communication and territory defense
Reproduction
- Breeding Season: Spring to early summer
- Nesting:
- Builds cup-shaped nests in trees or shrubs
- Nests made of grass, twigs, and mud
- Clutch Size: 3-5 eggs per brood
- Egg Color: Light blue
Migration
- Migratory species
- Travels south in winter to the United States and Mexico
- Returns north to Canada and northern U.S. for breeding
Conservation Status
- IUCN Red List: Least Concern
- Population: Stable and widespread
- Faces habitat loss and pesticide exposure
Fun Facts
- The American robin is often associated with the arrival of spring.
- It is one of the first birds to sing at dawn, earning it the nickname "dawn chorus" bird.
- Despite its name, the American robin is not closely related to the European robin.
Comparison with Other Birds
| Feature | American Robin | European Robin |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Turdus migratorius | Erithacus rubecula |
| Family | Turdidae | Muscicapidae |
| Size | 9-11 inches (23-28 cm) | 4.9-5.5 inches (12.5-14 cm) |
| Wingspan | 12-16 inches (30-41 cm) | 7.9-8.7 inches (20-22 cm) |
| Weight | 2.7-3 ounces (77-85 grams) | 0.56-0.77 ounces (16-22 grams) |
| Coloration | Orange-red breast, gray back, dark head | Orange-red breast, brown and gray body |
| Habitat | North America | Europe, North Africa, Western Asia |
Visual Gallery
<small>Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons / Creative Commons License</small>
Resources
Explore the melodious world of the American robin and discover why it’s a beloved symbol of spring across the continent!