ExploreBird

European Robin

Erithacus rubecula

The European Robin is a small, friendly bird known for its bright orange-red chest. They love to sing cheerful songs, especially in the morning!

Habitat: Woodlands, gardens, and parks

Appearance

The European Robin has a distinctive bright orange-red breast and face, sharply contrasted by greyish-brown upperparts and a white belly. This bold colouring makes it easily recognizable and visually different from other small European birds. Juveniles have mottled brown plumage before developing their famous red chest.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderPasseriformesFamilyMuscicapidaeGenusErithacus

European Robin

Interesting facts

Baby robins are mottled brown, developing their famous red breast only when older!

Both male and female European Robins sing complex songs, even during the winter months!

Robins can detect worms underground by listening and watching for tiny movements!

Their bright orange breast acts as a warning signal to other robins to stay away!

Special abilities

European Robin can sing complex songs year-round to defend its territory, helping it communicate with rivals and attract a mate.

European Robin has excellent vision to spot tiny insects and worms moving in the grass, which helps them find food efficiently.

European Robin can boldly approach humans and disturbance, which helps it discover new food sources in gardens and open areas.

Measurements & details

Length: 12.5-14 cm
Wingspan: 20-22 cm
Weight: 0.016-0.022 kg
Lifespan: 1-5 years
Top Speed: 55 km/h
Clutch Size: 4-7
Incubation: 13-14 days
Migration Distance: 500 km

Diet & Feeding

These tiny hunters feast on small creepy crawlies, and enjoy some yummy berries and seeds too!

Primary Foods

Insects
Spiders
Earthworms
Caterpillars
Berries
Seeds

Foraging Method

Foraging

Ecological connections

eaten by

Tawny Owl

Strix aluco

hunts adult birds and fledglings

eaten by

Domestic Cat

Felis catus

common predator in gardens

eaten by

Eurasian Sparrowhawk

Accipiter nisus

preys on small garden birds

hunts

Common Earthworm

Lumbricus terrestris

main food source from soil

Traits

Wildlife

Step into the incredible world of wild animals and plants living freely in nature. From tiny insects to towering trees, it's all part of the wild wonders around us!

Feathered

These are animals covered in soft, beautiful feathers that help them fly, stay warm, and even attract mates! Think of all the amazing birds you know.

Social

Discover creatures that love to live and work together! These animals form groups, helping each other find food, stay safe, and raise their young.

Singing

Listen to the beautiful sounds of nature's singers! These animals use their voices to attract friends, mark their territory, or even warn others.

Insectivorous

Discover clever creatures that specialize in munching on insects, playing a super important role in keeping bug populations in check. They are nature's tiny bug vacuums!