The Stereotypical Robin

© Photographer: William Wise | iNat Observation: 66787211 - American Robin; Clarke County, Georgia. February 26, 2018.

Genesis 1:14 "…and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years..."

While the quoted verse is spoken in regards to astronomy, it is also quite fitting ornithologically. Sure, the mild 70-degree temperatures, the glowing gold Daffodils and the white bursting forth of the Bradford Pears should be signal enough that spring is springing, but the increasing number of worm-hunting Robins is a stereotypical confirmation of springs arrival.

The Robins do not completely disappear for the winter, but there is a definite upsurge in the spring. On a few recent mornings I've come outside the animal shelter for dog photography and the lawn is covered in Robins; twenty to thirty at a time; heads cocked and hopping around.

It is hard to not become stereotypical when describing the Robin, but that is what they are: stereotypical! There is a reason every narrative describes "Robin Redbreast" in the same manner – the early bird, the sign of spring, the cheery vocalist – because that is what she is!

So instead of trying to write a new narrative, I simply quote the experts: “The quintessential early bird, American Robins are common sights on lawns across North America, where you often see them tugging earthworms out of the ground. Robins are popular birds for their warm orange breast, cheery song, and early appearance at the end of winter.” www.allaboutbirds.org

Posted on February 25, 2022 12:49 PM by