(Turdus migratorius). Patient Number 23-383.

Date of admission: May 21, 2023.
Reason for admission: Orphaned.

Patient History:

American robins are widely distributed across North America; they are commonly spotted as far north as Alaska and as far south as central Mexico. Northern populations will migrate south to escape the harshest winter weather, while other populations living further south are year-round residents. In Canada, the return of the robin to its northern habitats is regarded as one of the first signs of spring. 

Robins are active throughout the day but are characteristically regarded as “the early bird”, commonly spotted in the early morning hours hunting for worms. Robins prey predominantly on insect larvae, earthworms, caterpillars, and grasshoppers. A popular songbird, the robin is the state bird of Connecticut, Michigan, and Wisconsin. In Canada, the most recent banknote series that included the two-dollar note featured a meadow scene with two robins. The note was first released in 1986, but printing ceased in 1996 in favor of the “toonie”. Originally preferring wild deciduous woodland habitats, robins have become residents of city parks, golf courses, and residential backyards.

The patient pictured above was found orphaned in Airdrie. They were initially suspected to have a wing injury, but upon examination, it was revealed that they are a healthy fledgling. We receive nestling and fledgling Robins for various different reasons, the most common being; a suspected orphan, domestic animal attacks, and injury, or ailments due to collisions. All patients receive rehabilitative care at our wildlife hospital until they are old enough to be placed in an outdoor enclosure. Together they will learn how to forage for food and perfect their flying skills. Thank you for supporting their care!