Observers are hearing male robins singing their true song! As the vernal equinox approaches, what signs of spring are you seeing?

Only male robins sing the true song. It's the best sign that they are back to claim a territory.
PhotosforClass.com

Arriving First
The average latitude for FIRST robins this past week was 42.23. Males return before females. Look for a white eye ring, black head, and dark rusty-red breast. Listen carefully. Are your returning male robins singing the true song to claim a territory?

"I'm seeing more and more single robins and seeing more earthworms as well. I've also seen robins in pairs, chasing each other around the neighborhood. On March 2nd, I heard singing. It was definitely the true song. Spring is springing," reported Kathleen from Cincinnati, Ohio.

 

When your earthworms and backyard robins return, report to Journey North.
Eric Ellingson | PhotosforClass

Tugging Up Earthworms
Observers are reporting first earthworms and noting places where they are seeing robins pecking around at patches of dirt looking for a juicy meal. Hungry robins must tug hard to get an earthworm out of the ground. The worm can grip and anchor itself by stabbing its hair-like bristles, called setae, into the surrounding soil. During this tug-of-war, the stiff bristles hold so firmly that the worm can break as the robin pulls.

"For the past few days I have observed three robins on our front lawn. They have been feeding on worms they've pulled out of the soil. Makes me feel like spring is coming at last," reported Janet from Missouri on March 2, 2016.