HomeSpeciesExhibitionsMap
All Species
MuscicapidaePasseriformes

European Robin

Erithacus rubecula

About

The European Robin, with its distinctive orange-red breast, is one of the most beloved birds in European folklore and culture — Britain's unofficial national bird. Despite its friendly, approachable demeanor around humans, this small passerine is fiercely territorial, sometimes fighting rival robins to the death. Its sweet, melancholic song is one of the few birdsongs heard during winter months.

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Physical Characteristics

Wingspan

20–22 cm

Length

12.5–14 cm

Weight

16–22 g

Ecology

Habitat

Woodlands, gardens, hedgerows, parks

Diet

Insects, earthworms, berries, seeds

Distribution

Europe, Western Asia, North Africa