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American Robin
Contour body feather

American Robin

Kingdom Animalia, Phylum Chordata, Class Aves, Order Passeriformes, Family Turdidae, Genus Turdus, Species T. migratorius

Family: Turdidae (Thrushes and Allies)

Shape
Symmetrical vane, rounded tip, soft oval outline
Size
Approximately 1.5 inches long, typical for a medium-sized thrush contour feather
Rarity
Very Common
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Description

A charming and familiar backyard bird known for its cheerful song and habit of hunting earthworms on lawns. It features a dark grey back, yellow bill, and a vibrant brick-red to orange breast.

Colour & Pattern

Pure white base with a striking, warm rufous-orange tip, characteristic of the breast plumage of this species

Barb Structure

Pennaceous at the tip with a semiplumulaceous base, intact barbs with microscopic hooklets, small afterfeather present

Texture & Surface

Soft, silky, and somewhat fluffy at the base with a smooth, matte finish near the tip

Key Features

Distinctive bicolored contour feather featuring a crisp white section transitioning sharply to a rich rufous-orange tip

Habitat

Open woodlands, suburban lawns, parks, gardens, and agricultural fields

Geographic Range

Widespread across North America, breeding from Alaska and Canada down to Mexico, wintering mainly in the southern US and Central America

Ecological Role

Acts as an important seed disperser for various berries and serves as a key prey species for medium-sized raptors and mammals

Similar Species

Other thrush species such as Varied Thrush or Eastern Bluebird, but the specific hue and white base pattern are classic for the robin

Interesting Facts

American Robins can eat up to 14 percent of their body weight in earthworms daily and can sometimes become intoxicated from eating fermented berries

Condition Notes

Good, clean condition with intact barbs and no obvious signs of severe wear, fading, or parasitic damage