American Robin
  
Migration Update: March 16, 2010
Please Report
Your Sightings!

Robins were on the move last week with the dramatic change in temperatures. This week, explore robin vocalizations and learn what your backyard robin might be saying!

This Week's Report Includes:

Image of the Week

What are these robins doing, and why?

Photo Andy Wilson
The Migration: What's Happening Now & What to Watch For

What's Happening Now
Temperatures soared last week and robins raced northward. Pennsylvania third grade students suddenly saw robins all over town. In front yards, back yards, and in neighbors' yards, robins were flying over roof-tops and resting in the treetops according to the kids in Room 32 at Radio Park Elementary. Over 100 people reported 1st robins in a single week!

A spectacular wave of robins appeared in Mr. Frazier's backyard in Iowa. The trees were truly filled with robins as this picture shows. "Those aren't leaves on the trees, they're robins!" wrote Mr. Frazier. Try to count them!

 

What to Watch For
What do the robins do first after they arrive back on their territory in the spring? During fine weather, male robins spend their time singing, investigating their territories, and feeding. During cold or very wet weather, the males grow more silent and concentrate on feeding and taking shelter in thick conifer branches. Look and listen carefully. Can you see and hear these differences yourself?

 

SINGING Robins
(Map/List)

This Week's Featured Map


Map Questions

Explore: Robin Vocalizations
Dictionary of Robin Songs and Sounds

"Zeeeeup!" Peek!" "Tut, tut, tut!" What do robins mean when they make these sounds? Listen to six distinct vocalizations and learn what they mean—in English!

Research Question and Links: Explore!

This Week's Research Question: What causes robins to sing in the spring?

Other links to explore:

Please Report Your Sightings!
The First Robin You
See

Robins migrating in Waves
The First Robin You
Hear Singing

Your first sighting of Earthworms


Wayne Kruyduba
More Robin Lessons and Teaching Ideas!

The Next Robin Migration Update Will Be Posted on March 23, 2010.

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