Wild Wednesday – Robin
Our feathered friend, the European Robin, scientific name Erithacus rubecula, fondly known as the Robin redbreast, is one of the most beloved birds across the UK.
That vibrant orange-red breast and melodic song make it a year-round delight to encounter in gardens, parks, woodlands and hedgerows -Robins thrive across West Sussex inhabiting these diverse habitats.
Both males and females fiercely defend territories throughout the year, and you're just as likely to hear their cheerful trill in December as you are in May.
Size and appearance - these compact birds measure just 12 to 14 centimetres long and weigh around 16 to 22 grams. Both sexes share the iconic red breast, brown back, and white belly, while juveniles display spotted brown plumage.
Curious nature - robins have a fearless curiosity toward people, often following gardeners to feast on grubs unearthed by spades
Territorial songsters - these confident little birds sing all year, even at night near streetlights, using their beautiful warbles to assert dominance over their territories.
What they eat - mostly insectivores (feeding on insects) beetles, spiders, earthworms and other invertebrates (animals with no backbone). In autumn and winter, they also enjoy fruits, berries, seeds and even mealworms on garden feeders.
Nesting habits - typically nest in cup-shaped nests made of moss, grass, hair, and leaves, nestled close to the ground in shrubs or hedgerows. They are adaptable and are known to build nests in pots, car bonnets, and even upturned barbeques. They often raise two to three broods in spring and summer, each clutch containing around four to six eggs.
Why they matter in West Sussex
Robins play a vital role in controlling insect populations and are a cherished feature of the region's biodiversity. Thanks to their adaptability, they've maintained stable populations and are listed as "least concern" in conservation status. Their presence brightens our green spaces year-round, especially during chilly winter months when they bring life and song to the landscape.