European robin ~ Erithacus rubecula
The European robin is an insectivorous passerine bird that has a large range across Europe, east to Western Siberia and south to North Africa. The bird is almost exclusively sedentary, except in the far north. Relatively small, about 12.5–14.0cm in length, the European robin is a frequent visitor in British gardens and are often observed having little to no fear of humans, especially when doing gardening which gives the birds the opportunity to hunt for earthworms. However, male robins are known for their aggressive behaviour towards other males that stray into their territory and have been observed to even attack their own reflection on occasion. It is estimated that this territorial nature can account for up to 10% of adult robin deaths in some areas.
Robins use a variety of locations for nest building, including crevices, sheltered banks and even man made objects such as upturned brooms, discarded kettle etc. A robin’s nest consists of moss, feathers, small twigs and grass that will see up to three clutches of five to six eggs that will be laid throughout the breeding season. The eggs laid are usually white or cream speckled with a reddish-brown colour. When the chicks fledge they are observed to be a mottled brown colour and have not yet earned their famous orange breast yet.
