Have you ever heard the phrase “blue robin egg”? If so, then you already know one of the hallmarks of the American robin. If not, then we are glad to introduce you to the phrase and this adorable bird. Meet the American robin, the bird that lays blue eggs. The American crimson belongs to the thrush family and is one of the most common songbirds in North America. More than 37,000,000 American robins live in North America, according to estimates from the Partners in Flight database, making them the most abundant bird species on the continent. Thus, it fulfills a vital ecological function due to its position in the food chain as both a predator and a prey.
Due to its abundance and unique features, it is worth diving deeper into this adorable backyard songbird to learn more about them. In this article, we will discuss taxonomy, distribution, physical characteristics of the American robin, social and mating behavior, eggs and offspring, diet and feeding behavior, and environmental and cultural importance. We’ll also answer a few frequently asked questions about American robins, the bird that lays blue eggs.
Taxonomy
First described in 1766, the American robin belongs to the genus Turdus, or the family of thrushes, of which usually songbirds with rounded heads and long, pointed wings are members. Although the American robin is named after the European robin, they do not have close family ties. There is ongoing debate about the genetic origin of the American robin, with some scientists claiming that it is more closely related to the African thrush than the North American thrush. In total, scientists distinguish seven different subspecies of the American robin, which got their names mainly due to their geographical distribution throughout North America. These subspecies include the eastern robin, Newfoundland robin, southern robin, northwestern robin, western robin, San Lucas robin, and Mexican robin. Of these subspecies, only the San Lucas robin stands out due to the grayish-brown coloration of the underside.
Distribution
American robins are found throughout North America, from Canada and Alaska in the north to Mexico in the south. During the winter, most robins migrate south of their natural habitat and spend time in Florida, central Mexico, or along the Pacific coast. In fact, the Latin name of the American robin, Turdus migratorius, translates roughly as “migrating thrush”. Depending on where they spend their summer, some birds can migrate hundreds or even thousands of miles to reach the region where they winter. Although American robins occasionally appear in Europe, Greenland and some islands in the Caribbean, sightings are infrequent. Because of its widespread distribution and abundance, the IUCN classifies the American robin as the species of least concern. However, it is also prohibited to hunt American robins without a permit, as they enjoy protection under the Birds of Passage Act.
physical characteristics
With the exception of the San Lucas robin, most American robins share similar physical characteristics. They average 9.1 to 11 inches in length and 12 to 16 inches in wingspan. Males typically weigh between 2.5 and 3.3 ounces, with an average weight of 2.7 ounces. Females are slightly smaller, in most cases 2.1 to 3.2 ounces. Like the European robin, the American robin has an orange-red color on its belly that can range from burgundy to pinkish orange. Feathers on the back are usually brown, and on the head they are gray to black. Most American robins have white markings on the neck, around the eyes, and on hidden feathers located near the chest and undertail. Their beaks mostly appear yellow, but often end with a dark tip. Like most bird species, females appear dimmer than males.
Social and marital behavior
American robins are diurnal, that is, they sleep at night. During the day they mostly hunt and forage alone, but at night they gather in large flocks to sleep. However, during the mating season in summer, they become more territorial and tend to act less socially. American robins prefer to nest in forested areas, open grasslands, or urban settings. American robins can breed several broods during each mating season, which usually lasts from April to July. Females build a new nest for each brood, and they tend to place their nests in dense bushes or trees. In urban areas, robins also build their nests under the eaves of buildings. Nests are composed of several layers, including an outer layer of grass, twigs and feathers, and an inner layer lined with mud and covered with soft grass or vegetation.
Eggs and offspring
Female American robins usually lay 3 to 5 eggs at a time. The female is solely responsible for incubating the eggs, while the males work to collect food and protect the nest. American robin eggs usually appear pale blue, also known as blue robin eggs. The hue is similar to a greenish blue color, although there is a significant difference between the eggs. Some eggs will appear paler, while others will contain brown freckles or specks. After about 14 days, the eggs will hatch, and after another 14 days the chicks will leave the nest. As long as juveniles live in their parents’ nests, the adult female and male of American robins will protect and feed their offspring. Sometimes brown-headed cowbirds target American robins and lay their eggs in their nest. However, very few eggs hatch from bovine birds, as American robins often reject bovine eggs.
Diet
The American robin mainly feeds on fruits and berries, but small invertebrates also make up a significant part of its diet. Favorite fruits include fermented pyracantha or rose hips, which can cause drunken stupor when consuming large amounts of food. Meanwhile, common invertebrates include insects such as earthworms, larvae, caterpillars, and grasshoppers. Young robins usually eat earthworms and other milder insects, although they also eat berries. American robins hunt primarily by sight, but also rely on their hearing and sense of smell to find their prey. You can often see them running through the grass looking for earthworms, which they can spot just by listening to the vibrations of the earth.
Ecological and cultural significance
As numerous omnivores, American robins play an important role in the ecosystems in which they inhabit. They prey on insects and worms and help maintain populations of small invertebrates on their territory. In addition, American robins are hunted by a number of different species, including hawks, cats, and snakes. In this way, they control and maintain the population of several different animal species. Culturally, the American robin delights many birdwatchers with its varied and complex array of vocalizations. He serves as a bird for the states of Connecticut, Michigan and Wisconsin and appears frequently in song, literature, and television. The American robin is synonymous with spring, fertility and rebirth as it is one of the earliest bearing species of birds.
Frequently asked questions about American robins
Will American robins live in a birdhouse?
Most American robins will not live in artificial birdhouses as they do not build or live in hollow nests. However, they can build their nest on an artificial nesting platform, if available.
How many American robins live to adulthood?
Unfortunately, only about 10-25% of American robins reach adulthood. Most young robins fall prey to predators at an early age.
How long do American robins live?
In the wild, most robins will not survive to adulthood. Those who reach the age of majority live on average about 6 years, but can live up to 14 years. In captivity, they can live up to 17 years.