American Robin Definition | Characteristics & Facts

American Robin

American Robin

American Robin Definition

It is a small size songbird native to North America. It belongs to the thrush family (Turdidae) and is one of the most widely recognized and beloved birds in the United States and Canada.

American Robin General Characteristics & Facts

Habitat

American Robins can be found throughout North America, from Alaska and Canada down to Mexico. They are highly adaptable birds and can be seen in various habitats, including woodlands, parks, gardens, fields, and suburban areas.

Diet

The diet of American Robins consists mainly of insects, worms, and various types of fruits, especially berries. During the breeding season, they rely heavily on earthworms and insects as a protein source, while in the fall and winter, they consume more fruits.

Migratory Behavior

American Robins are migratory birds, and their migration patterns vary depending on their location. In northern regions, they migrate south during the winter, while those in more temperate climates may remain year-round.

Nesting and Breeding

They typically build cup-shaped nests made of twigs, grass, and mud. Females incubate the eggs, usually laying a clutch of 3-5 pale blue eggs.

Song and Calls

The American Robin is known for its beautiful song, which is a series of melodious phrases and whistles. Their songs are often associated with the arrival of spring. Besides their song, they have various calls, including a sharp “tut” or “tut-tut” when alarmed.

Feeding Behavior

American Robins are ground-foragers, hopping and running across lawns and fields to search for worms, insects, and other invertebrates. They may also eat from fruit-bearing trees and shrubs.

State Bird

The American Robin is the state bird of Connecticut, Michigan, and Wisconsin.

Popularity

The American Robin is one of the most well-known and beloved birds in North America, and its presence is often associated with the changing seasons.

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Physical Characteristics of American Robin

Certainly! Here are the physical characteristics of the American Robin:

  1. Size: The American Robin is a medium-sized bird with an average length of about 9-11 inches (23-28 centimeters).
  2. Weight: Adult American Robins typically weigh between 2.7 to 3 ounces (76 to 85 grams).
  3. Coloration: The American Robin has a distinctive appearance. Its head, back, wings, and tail are mostly grayish-brown. The breast is a vibrant orange-red, which contrasts with a white belly and undertail coverts. The sides of the head and throat are also white, and they have a white eye-ring around their eyes.
  4. Beak: The beak of an American Robin is slender and slightly curved downwards. It is yellow with a dark tip, which helps them catch insects and worms.
  5. Legs and Feet: They have sturdy legs and strong feet that are adapted for hopping and running on the ground.
  6. Gender Differences: Male and female American Robins have similar plumage, but the males are usually slightly brighter in color.
  7. Juveniles: Juvenile American Robins have a spotted or streaked breast and a less distinct eye-ring, which becomes more prominent as they mature.
  8. Flight: When in flight, American Robins display a distinct white patch on their lower belly and under their tail feathers.
  9. Vocalizations: American Robins are known for their melodious songs, consisting of a series of clear, whistling phrases. They are often heard singing early in the morning and during the breeding season.

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Scientific Classification of American Robin

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Aves

Order: Passeriformes

Family: Turdidae

Genus: Turdus

Species: Turdus migrator

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American Robin FAQs

What does American Robin eat?

  1. Insects and their larvae
  2. Worms
  3. Fruits, including berries, cherries, and grapes
  4. Seeds and nuts
  5. Earthworms
  6. Spiders
  7. Invertebrates like snails and insects
  8. Occasionally, small amphibians or reptiles
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