American Robin

Spring isn't the same without the American robin. With its impressive worm-hunting skills and entertaining nesting habits, it's definitely one of America's favorite backyard birds. Learn how to attract an American robin to your yard, and listen to its song.

Photo: Roland Jordahl

• Scientific Name: Turdus migratorius
• Family: Thrush.
• Length: 10 inches.
• Wingspan: 17 inches.
• Distinctive Markings: Male has orange breast, black head and tail, yellow bill, white around eyes and on throat. Females are duller.
• Nest: Three to four pastel-blue eggs in a neat deep cup made of mud and grass.
• Song: Loud liquid song, "cheerily, cheer-up, cheerio."
• Habitat: Yards, fields, farms and woods.
• Diet: Earthworms. Also eats insects, berries and some seeds.
• Backyard Favorites: Fresh fruit, raisins, hulled sunflower seeds and peanut butter.