
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 with a gently tapered, pointed tip and smooth, rounded margins.
- Size
- Approximately 1.5 inches long, consistent with a medium-sized passerine body contour feather.
- Rarity
- Very Common
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Description
The American Robin is a migratory songbird of the thrush family, famous for being one of the first heralds of spring. It features a dark gray back, a bright brick-red to orange breast, and a yellowish bill. They are energetic foragers frequently seen hopping across lawns in search of earthworms.
Colour & Pattern
Dark slate gray to charcoal coloration with a faint lighter grayish-white edge or tip, typical of non-rust-colored body feathers.
Barb Structure
Pennaceous upper portion with tightly interlocked barbs and barbicels, transitioning into a plumulaceous (fluffy) downy base.
Texture & Surface
Smooth and soft in the pennaceous region with a velvety appearance, becoming fluffy and downy near the base.
Key Features
Uniform slate-gray coloration, small size suitable for a medium passerine, and a distinct semi-pluimaceous base.
Habitat
Open woodlands, suburban lawns, parks, gardens, and agricultural fields across North America.
Geographic Range
Widely distributed across North America, breeding from Alaska and Canada down to Mexico, wintering in the southern US and Central America.
Ecological Role
Acts as an important seed disperser through fruit consumption and helps regulate invertebrate populations by preying heavily on earthworms and insects.
Similar Species
Other medium-sized thrushes and gray songbirds, though the distinct charcoal gray tone helps separate robin body feathers.
Interesting Facts
Despite being called a harbinger of spring, many American Robins actually winter in northern areas if food sources like berries remain available, rather than migrating south.
Condition Notes
Good condition with intact barbs and a clean shaft, showing minimal wear or fraying.