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A small brown bird with a bright orange-red breast perched on a mossy branch.Least Concern

European Robin

Erithacus rubecula

Also known as: Robin Redbreast, Ruddock

The European Robin (Erithacus rubecula) is a small insectivorous passerine found throughout Europe, western Asia, and parts of North Africa. Instantly recognisable by its bright orange-red breast, it is one of the most familiar and beloved garden birds in Britain. Despite its endearing appearance, the robin is fiercely territorial and will aggressively defend its patch with song and physical confrontation. It is one of the few British birds that sings throughout winter, its melodic, wistful song often heard at dawn and dusk.

Did you know?
European Robins are so territorial that they have been known to attack red objects, including socks and balls of yarn, mistaking them for rival birds!

European Robin Quick Facts

Lifespan
1-2 years (up to 5)
Habitat
Woodlands, hedgerows, parks, gardens
Diet
Insects, worms, berries, seeds
Region
Europe, western Asia, North Africa

Frequently Asked Questions About the European Robin

The European Robin is partial migrant and is associated with Woodlands, hedgerows, parks, gardens in Europe, western Asia, North Africa.

The European Robin can be found in Europe, western Asia, North Africa and is most often associated with Woodlands, hedgerows, parks, gardens.

The European Robin feeds on Insects, worms, berries, seeds and is considered a insectivore.

The European Robin is currently listed as Least Concern, with a stable population trend. Main threats include Predation by cats, Harsh winters, Habitat loss.

The European Robin is usually solitary and territorial.

The European Robin is typically diurnal (sings at dawn and dusk).

The main threats facing the European Robin include Predation by cats, Harsh winters, and Habitat loss.

The European Robin population trend is currently stable.

Well-known places to look for the European Robin include British Isles, Scandinavia (summer), and Mediterranean (winter).

Natural predators of the European Robin include Domestic cats, Sparrowhawks, and Magpies.

Britain's unofficial national bird and a beloved symbol of Christmas, frequently depicted on festive cards and decorations.

The European Robin is part of the Muscicapidae family and a Passeriformes order.

The European Robin weighs about 0.018 kg, stands around 14 cm tall, reaches about 14 cm in length, and has a wingspan of about 22 cm.

The European Robin can reach speeds of around 32 km/h.