With spring quickly approaching, I figured it would be a great time to do a Wild Fact on a true sign of spring, the American Robin. Wait! What do you mean spring isn’t quickly approaching? Why do you have to go and say horrible things like that? Okay, let me rephrase that. In an effort to convince myself that spring is just around the corner, today’s Wild Fact will be on the American Robin. By the way, thanks for bursting my bubble.
I am sure most of us have seen or heard the sweet song of an American Robin. As mentioned this migratory bird is the true sign that spring has sprung here in North America. If you aren’t too sure whether you have heard the Robin lullaby then I recommend watching the short video below (even if you have heard it before, I still recommend watching the video – it will make you long for spring). Usually, these birds are the first to sing in the morning and typically one of the last to be heard at night. I guess they just love to have the last word. I know a few people like that. Okay, here is the video clip of the singing American Robin.
Unfortunately it will be several months before I get to hear that sound again, well unless I play the video again.
The American Robin’s return to their breeding grounds usually occurs between March and May depending on how far north they go. Typically, the males will show up first with the females being about a week behind. Of course the females would be late. They were probably busy picking out a dress or trying to figure out which shade of lipstick to go with for the long flight. A mating pair of Robins will usually stay together for the breeding season. Now I see why the females needed to take so long to get ready. The American Robin must have some commitment issues though since they will usually find a new mate the following year. If you live in the breeding zone of the Robin then you may
very well be seeing the same individuals year after year. That’s right, the adult mating pairs will typically return to the same general breeding area, year after year. Meanwhile, the young from the previous year will find a new area to occupy. It appears that the young ones get kicked out of the house fairly early. I guess that is the perks of being a beautiful song bird that represents one of the best times of the year.
Well, now that I am dreaming of the summer months, I guess I will go back to reality and shovel my driveway. Who am I kidding? I will shovel later! Have a great day, everyone.
