Hello Robin !

Regular readers will no doubt be aware that the Robin is my favourite bird, and perhaps you'll agree with me when I say doesn't it look cute in the above photograph taken by Yen Milne! As well as being my favourite bird, apparently it is also the UK's favourite bird! Thanks to its bright red breast, it's familiar throughout the year and especially around Christmastime. Males and females look identical, young birds have no red breast and are spotted with golden brown. Robins sing nearly all year round and despite their cute appearance, they are aggressively territorial and are quick to drive away intruders. They will sing at night next to street lights.

A little more detail:
1. Year-round Residents: While many bird species migrate, UK robins are primarily non-migratory birds. They usually remain in the same territory throughout the year, defending it vigorously against other robins.
2. Territorial Singing: Male robins are known for their melodious songs, but did you know that they also sing to establish and defend their territories? They often sing during the night too, especially in well-lit urban areas. However, robins don't appear to be as territorial or aggressive towards other species, and have even been seen to feed chicks of other species.
3. Aggressive Behaviour: Despite their charming appearance, robins can be quite aggressive towards each other and other bird species when defending their territories. They are known to engage in fierce battles, often resulting in injuries.
4. Symbol of Christmas: In the UK, robins are strongly associated with Christmas and are a popular motif on holiday cards and decorations. This association is believed to have originated from Victorian postmen, who wore red uniforms and were nicknamed "robins." There is a National Robin Day, which takes place on the 21st December each year.
5. Red Breast, Brown Bird: The vibrant red breast of the robin is a result of a pigment called carotenoid, which is obtained from their diet of fruits and insects. However, the rest of their plumage is actually brown, helping them blend into their natural surroundings.
6. Short Lifespan: Despite their endearing presence, robins have relatively short lifespans. On average, they live for about 1.1 years due to high mortality rates in their first year. However, those that survive past their first year can live up to 5-6 years.
7. Nesting Habits: Robins are known for nesting in unusual places, including sheds, hanging baskets, and even clothing left outside. Their nests are often well-hidden and made with a variety of materials, including leaves, moss, and feathers.
8. Worms Aren't Their Main Diet: While the image of a robin pulling a worm from the ground is iconic, worms make up only a small portion of their diet. Robins are omnivores, and they also eat insects, fruits, and berries, especially during the colder months when worms are less accessible.
9. Legends and folklore: One of the most famous legends of robin red breast is that the robin got his breast after burning himself on a fire, which he fanned to keep the baby Jesus warm. He is then fabled to forever carry the red breast as a sign of his devotion.
10. Population Decline: Despite their widespread presence and popularity, UK robin populations have experienced a 2% decline between 2015-2020 due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. 

Details above taken from here

The American Robin (pictured above)

The American robin is different from the UK/European Robin. It is a distinctive and easily recognizable songbird, known for its large size, vibrant plumage, and melodious song. As the largest North American thrush, it boasts a robust physique with specific identifying characteristics that set it apart in the avian world. American Robins are highly adaptable birds found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, suburban areas, parks, and gardens. They prefer open spaces with short grass where they can forage for insects. The availability of water sources is also essential for their survival.

Image and more to read can be seen here

Did you know

Fat balls or bars can be a great way to entice robins. Melt some suet or lard and mix it with fruit, nuts and seeds, then leave the hardened balls or bars on your feeder. Use about one-third fat to two-thirds mixture. Stir well in a bowl and allow it to set in a container of your choice. In addition, make sure you put out a dish of clean water – robins need to stay hydrated and clean.

I do enjoy watching the birds (and occasional squirrel) either from behind a window or indeed out in the garden, nature is so enjoyable. If you can, why not go for a walk and listen to the great sound of bird song, and should you be fortunate to see any birds do please share them with us.

For now, having been out recently, I'm going to settle down with a cuppa, and a low carb lemon cheesecake cookie/biscuit ... would you like one? See here

Dear reader, you will find a variety of articles and recipe ideas within this blog, but please note, not all may be suitable for you. If you may have any food allergies, or underlying health issues these must always be taken into account. If you are a diabetic and not sure how certain foods may affect your blood sugars, test is best, i.e. use your meter. If you have any concerns about your health, it is always advisable to consult your doctor or health care team.

All the best Jan