Introducing……
In the black corner, we have “Rocky” Robin from Woodbrook in Charlottesville, defending his Featherweight title. “Rocky” has a wingspan 12-inches and comes in weighing a trim .17-pounds. In the red corner, fighting out of Hollymead, we have “Kid” Redbreast, a newcomer hoping to nest in the Brewer’s backyard. “The Kid” also weighs .17 pounds, but has a wingspan of 12.2 inches.
“You two know the back yard rules. Protect yourselves at all times and may the best bird win.”
Now, let’s get ready to rumble!”
And rumble they did and are still doing. Robin feathers are everywhere as birds are now pairing off in our back yard, each seeking squatter’s rights. Ultimately, there will be two pairs of robins that will nest in or near our yard and police the lawn and edges for worms and grubs to feed their young. They will also take turns at the birdbath, as splashing in fresh water is a favored robin activity.
It’s hard to tell robins apart – male and female – but males robins generally have a deeper, orange colored breast and a blacker head. Females are a bit paler in color with more white in the head area.
Robins only live a couple years in the wild, but I believe I have had the same male robin for three years. He was quick to recognize that I was the one who brought meal worms to the bluebirds and he made sure he got his share.
Last spring, “Rocky’ would hop right up to my feet when I was at the goldfish pond, begging for you know what. And I always gave him some.
I expect “Rocky” Robin will dominate the bout with “Kid” Redbreast. The youngster still has a few things to learn about fisticuffs. By next week, the turf wars will likely be settled and the robins will then pick their mates. Once that is accomplished, the female will go house hunting and select the prefect branch or limb on which to build a nest.
It happens like that every year.