| The robin, common summer resident of green lawns and shade trees, is probably our most familiar bird. Paradoxically, many people know surprisingly little about this member of the thrush family.
The robin is indeed a thrush, a group characterized by blue eggs, spotted breasts (immature robins), a soothing song, and other specific attributes. Their ability to please our auditory senses is very well known and appreciated.
The annual appearance of the first 'Robin of spring' is a classic misconception of the general public. Although it is true that local robin populations depart our lawns in late summer, it is because the ground has dried and the worms have gone deep. The birds then move to feed in wooded area and on the ripening fruits of the season. Most migrate sometime later, but are replaced by northern robins, which spend the winter here in varying numbers according to the food supply. The first robins to occupy our lawns in late February when the worms become available are those northern birds which have been nearby all winter. Local populations return during March and April and gradually replace the departing northern birds.
Male robins assist their mates in nest construction, incubation and care of the young. Several broods are raised each year and the same individuals return to the same lawns year after year.
Lenght 9 - 11 inches
|
