American Robin
Scientific Name:
Turdus migratorius
Type:
Bird
Habitat:
Diverse habitats throughout North America such as forests, deserts, suburban neighborhoods, farmland, seashores - wherever there are insects, worms, and berries
Range:
Throughout North America; year round in most US range areas
Status:
Least Concern (IUCN Red List)
This species is
NATIVE
to the Truckee Meadows.
Identification:
American robins are medium-sized birds that have dark gray backs and wings, yellow bills, and orange bellies. Their ground foraging behavior can distinguish them from other birds as they will run a few steps and then suddenly stop to stare at the ground. American robins have been observed running and hopping. They adapt well to human habitats and will be found nesting on house features and are often found at bird feeders.
Fast Facts:
American robins forage on the ground and use motionless, continuous staring at the ground to spot earthworms. At one time it was thought that they could hear earthworms. They eat more earthworms in the morning and eat more berries in the afternoon.
American robins can become intoxicated eating honeysuckle berries.
American robins are found in all parks throughout the Truckee Meadows.
Sources:
National Audubon Society, Guide to North American Birds, American Robin, website 2021, https://www.audubon.org/field-guide/bird/american-robin
Cornell Ornithology Lab, All About Birds, American Robin, website 2021, https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/American_Robin/
IUCN Redlist, American Robin, website 2021, last assessed 2016. https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/103889499/94186470
Contributor(s):
Caron Tayloe (research & content)
Alex Shahbazi (edits & page design)