Date: 12/20/2023

Number: 72

Nice day in the upper 40's, close to 50 F, SSE wind 3-4 mph. From 3:30 - 4:00 pm, I conservatively saw 6 dozen robins at the edge of the timber.

Some were flying tree to tree, vocalizing with the whinney call, peak call, pipping, and even a couple of true songs!

A few robins were on the ground, but most were in the tree tops. It sounded like spring with all their chatter.

But there were no fighting or territorial behaviors.

I think they were socializing before flocking up to roost for the night.

I had seen approximately 3 dozen in the timber around me and then saw another 3 dozen flying in high from the SE.

I wonder if some of the young breeding males are practicing the "true song" in anticipation of spring?

It's not the loud, vibrant song I usually hear during breeding season. But a few birds are singing softly.

Donnellson, IA

Latitude: 40.7 Longitude: -91.6

Observed by: Debbie
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