The
American Robin is a very common and familiar bird across the state. Well
adapted to living with humans, they will readily nest and forage near dwellings
(as the photo to the right shows). They are often seen in suburban
settings, running across lawns as they forage.
Habitat: Residential areas, parks, farmland,
forests. Often near berry sources when wintering.
Diet: Mostly fruit and berries, insects,
and earthworms.
Behavior: Primarily forages on the ground, where
earthworms are a favorite item. Will also forage in trees and shrubs
for berries. During the winter months, they tend to become more
concentrated and localized, especially in the northern part of their range.
Nesting: Late April through July
Migration: Migratory, but gathers in large flocks and
can be found in scattered locations in the winter. Wide variation in
numbers from winter to winter and from location to location.
Similar Species: Varied
Thrush (rare winter visitor to South Dakota)
Feeders: Breadcrumbs.
Note that I personally have had Robins feed on shelled sunflower kernels that
had fallen on the ground below a hanging feeder.
Birdhouses: Will use nesting shelves. Also
will nest on semi-protected areas of buildings
Status: Numbers are stable.
2)
Cornell University's "All About Birds - American Robin"
3)
eNature.com:
American Robin
Photo Information: June 21st, 2001
-- Brandon, Minnehaha County -- Terry L. Sohl
Additional Photos: Click on the image chips or
text links below for additional, higher-resolution American Robin photos.
