The American robin is a bird that many people think of when spring arrives. But did you know that in many parts of the United States, robins are around all year long? These birds are easy to recognize because of their bright reddish-orange bellies. They are one of the most common birds in North America.
Robins are busy birds, especially in the morning when they look for food in yards. They love to eat earthworms, beetles, grubs, caterpillars, fruits, and berries. Unlike some other birds, robins don’t usually eat seeds, so they don’t visit bird feeders very often.
If you want robins to visit your yard, there are some things you can do. Robins love water, so putting out a shallow tray filled with water can attract them. You can also offer them food like mealworms, pieces of fruit, or raisins. Placing the food near the water can help robins find it more easily.
In the spring, you might be lucky enough to find a robin’s nest. If you do, you could see their beautiful eggs, which are a special color called “robin’s egg blue.” These eggs usually hatch about two weeks after they are laid, which is an exciting event to witness!
The American robin is so loved that it is the state bird of Connecticut, Michigan, and Wisconsin. This shows how important and popular robins are in different places.
The American robin is an amazing bird that you can often see in your own backyard. By learning about what they like and how they live, you can make your yard a welcoming place for these lovely songbirds. Whether you see them looking for food or building nests, robins are a wonderful part of the North American landscape.
Robin Observation Journal: Spend some time outside in your yard or a nearby park and try to spot an American robin. Take a small notebook with you and write down what you see. Can you spot their reddish-orange belly? What are they doing? Are they looking for food or maybe taking a bath in a puddle? Draw a picture of the robin and write a few sentences about your observations. Share your findings with your classmates or family.
Create a Robin-Friendly Space: With the help of an adult, set up a small area in your yard to attract robins. Fill a shallow tray with water and place some pieces of fruit or raisins nearby. Check the area each day to see if any robins visit. Keep a record of how many robins you see and what they do. Discuss with your family why robins might like or dislike the space you created.
Robin’s Egg Blue Art Project: Use craft supplies to create your own version of a robin’s nest and eggs. Gather materials like twigs, leaves, and small pieces of paper. Use blue paint or crayons to color paper eggs in “robin’s egg blue.” Arrange your nest and eggs in a small box or on a piece of cardboard. Display your artwork at home and explain to your family why robins’ eggs are special.
