Robin Facts Introduction Robins belong to the Thrush family of birds. The European Robin (Erithacus Rubecula) can be found all over Europe and is a common garden bird in the British Isles. It is also Britains National Bird, chosen by the International Council for Bird Preservation in 1961. The Robin seems to be a little stereotyped and is associated with Winter, especially Christmas time. In fact, Robins can be seen all year around. Physical Appearance Robins are a small bird with a body length of 14cm. They have a distinctive orange-red face and breast with a white rump and olive brown wings and back. Male and Female birds are alike. Habitat Robins are predominantly a woodland bird, but the urbanisation by man has offered them an alternative habitat. They now frequent parks and gardens, filling the airwaves with their melodic rich warbling song. In late summer, when young birds have gained adult plumage, there is a great deal of disputing, as territories and borders are established. Voice The song of the Robin can only be described as a liquid warble which has often been mistaken for that of a nightingale, particularly after dusk. Another sound they make is a "tic tic tic" which seems to act as a kind of warning call to other birds when there is imminent danger. Breeding About mid winter, the female goes mate hunting. She does the choosing; while the cock bird sings from his tree, she unobtrusively enters the undergrowth, and if she is tolerated for a few weeks, she begins to accompany him. The female builds a domed nest of grass, dead leaves and moss in an isolated place in a bush, hedge, hole in a tree, wall or even a ledge in a garden shed. The Female incubates 3 to 6 eggs for 13 to 14 days. The eggs are white, usually with red-brown spots and blotches. The young fledge after 2 weeks and there may be three broods per year. The young are fed by both parents. See the excellent Turning Earth site for a diary of facts about Robin fledglings Behaviour Although the Robin is considered to be a mainly shy bird, they have a friendly personality and interact well with humans which is why the bird is often referred to as the "Gardeners Friend". They have learnt to make use of the many insects and worms which are disturbed during digging, taking advantage of the newly exposed soil. Robin's are however very aggressive towards each other, defending their own territory. It has been known for a Robin to attack red objects fearing that it may be a threat !