
American Robin
Turdus migratorius
The American Robin is one of North America's most familiar birds. Its orange-red breast and habit of searching lawns for worms make it especially easy for beginners to recognize.
Quick identification
Look for an orange-red breast, gray back, dark head, and relatively large round body. Robins are frequently seen hopping across lawns.
At a glance
American Robin quick facts
Size
small
Wingspan
14.0–16.0 inches
Habitat
Lawns, parks, forests, gardens, and suburban neighborhoods
Diet
Earthworms, insects, berries, and fruit
Identification
How to identify a American Robin
Look for an orange-red breast, gray back, dark head, and relatively large round body. Robins are frequently seen hopping across lawns.
Behavior
Robins often forage on lawns and open ground, stopping frequently to listen and look for earthworms. They may gather in large flocks when feeding on fruit.
What does the American Robin sound like?
A series of clear, musical phrases often heard early in the morning.
Appearance
Male vs. female
Male
Males have a dark gray back, orange-red breast, dark head, and white markings around the eye.
Female
Females look similar but are generally somewhat duller in coloration.
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