November: Preparing for Winter
During November, American Robin migration is well underway – and it never really ends. Robins are on the move throughout fall, winter, and early spring.
November is Here
During November migration is well underway – and it never really ends. American Robins are on the move throughout fall, winter, and early spring. Winter robins are social and travel in flocks, relying on one another to find food and watch for predators. Robins now spend more time in trees than on the ground. Fluffing out their down feathers keeps them warm in cold temperatures.
Robin in Parker, CO: “We have seen 1-2 in the last week or 2 but today they were here en mass! Mostly seen drinking from our fountain. We do have a field directly behind us with a collection pond for rain and snow runoff. Good area for insects. I have seen them feeding not to mention our seed that drops to the ground from feeders we have. We sometimes have mealworms for them but hadn’t put any out since last spring/early summer.”(10/16/2022)
Jane in Appomattox, VA: “At least two hundred Robins heading southbound. Lasted for 15 minutes, in waves.” (10/30/2022)
Nancy in Tinton Falls, NJ: “Flock of Robins drinking rain water from my pool cover and eating the berries from my Burning Bushes.” (11/03/2022)
Leucism
Have you ever observed a lecustic robin? Leucism is a genetic condition which prevents pigments from reaching some or all of a bird’s feathers. These robins tend to have white splotches on their feathers, but the eyes and skin remain their normal color.
Take a look at these resources to learn more about leucism and albinism:
Keep Observing and Reporting
During the rest of fall migration, report your observations of American Robins. Don’t forget to share photos!
