American Robin
Turdus migratorius
Family Turdidae

A familiar large thrush, the American Robin is common to suburban lawns, often seen pulling up worms. Although a native of the deep areas of mature forests, the robin is the most widespread thrush in America because of its ability to thrive in human-altered habitats.

Identifying Traits (male):

• Brick-red breast
• Black back and wings
• Darker head with white eye crescents
• Juvenile has speckled breast with familiar rusty red wash
• Size: 23-28 cm (9-11”)
• Weight: 77 g (2.72 oz)

Identifying Traits (female):

• Female head and tail grayer than male’s

Voice: Song a low, clear series of whistled phrases with a distinct liquid quality. Each phrase sung quickly with long pauses between. May sound like “cheerily, cheer up, cheer up, cheerily, cheer up.” Call can be a low pup, a sharp clucking, or a rapid, urgent kli quiquiquiqui koo.

Habitat: The American Robin makes it home most commonly in cities, towns, and suburban lawns, but may also be found in tundra and in forests, where it feeds on apple and berry trees.

Range: The American Robin can be found throughout the continental United States

Interesting Facts: Earthworms aren’t the only thing robins eat. During the breeding season worms make up a main part of the robin diet, but during the winter the American Robin relies on fruits and berries for survival. The robin also eats different things at different parts of the day, usually worms in the morning and fruits and berries later on. Because the American Robin frequents lawns to forage for worms, it is an important indicator of chemical pollution due to pesticide use.