
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