AMERICAN ROBIN

Despite the name, the American Robin is not closely related to the European Robin — it's actually a thrush. Early American colonists named it after the familiar red-breasted bird from home, simply because of the similar chest color. They're are among the very first birds to sing before dawn, often starting while it's still completely dark. Robins find earthworms by tilting their head sideways — they're actually listening for movement underground, not just looking. In winter, when worms are scarce, they switch almost entirely to berries and fruit. They can sometimes even get slightly intoxicated from eating fermented berries! A cheerful, resilient, and surprisingly clever little bird!