Description

Distinguishing Features - One of the most familiar Northwestern Ontario birds. Top and sides of head, and back of neck black with white encircling eyes. Back slate; fading to black on wings and tail; tail tipped white; breast, sides and upper abdomen brick-red. Bill yellow. The female colouration is similar to the male but somewhat paler.

Size - 23 - 27.5 cm (9.25 - 11 in).

Habitat

Mixed and coniferous stands, clearings, swampy areas.

Nesting

Mixedwood stands and edge of forest areas, but prefers inhabited areas. Deciduous or coniferous trees, bushes or ornamental trees, sometimes even available nooks and crannies of buildings. Large nest consists of sticks, grass and weeds with walls of mud; lined with grass, feathers and other soft materials. Eggs, usually 4; blue. Incubation period 11 - 14 days.

Notes

Hard to overlook, the Robin is possibly our first sign of spring, arriving before other migratory species. Its diet consists mainly of insects, worms and fruits. Its song is a series of three-syllable phrases - Cheer up or Cheerily.

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