Robin - Erithacus rubecula - Family: Turdidae
 Robin - Erithacus rubecula© Dr Chris Gibson/English NatureOne of the most familiar of all British birds, the robin is a common sight in gardens, parks, woodlands and hedgerows throughout the year. The robin's placid appearance belies its aggressive nature and it is one of the most dominant small birds at the bird table. Robins are territorial throughout the year and males can often be seen chasing or fighting each other, especially at the beginning of the breeding season. Singing continues throughout the autumn and winter. Robins also make a loud 'tick' noise which is often repeated rapidly. In parts of Europe the robin is wary of humans because it is still regularly hunted, but in Britain it is one of our most confiding birds and can readily be trained to take food from the hand. It frequently follows gardeners in order to take earthworms and other invertebrates that have been disturbed by digging or clearing vegetation. Wherever it occurs, the robin is named after its colour. Although, this does not appear to be the case at first sight in Britain, here its 'real' name is redbreast. The 'robin' element is effectively a nickname, showing familiarity and affection: Robin Hood has the same origin. Robins are so frequently shown on Christmas cards because the uniform of the first postmen - much more in evidence at Christmas time than any other - included a vermilion waistcoat and they themselves quickly became known as robins. Although juvenile robins lack the red breast and instead are strongly mottled, their stance and swagger and general behaviour - what bird enthusiasts know as their 'jizz' - still makes them immediately identifiable. Robins are not fussy where they nest, nor when. Nests have been recorded in every month of the year although March to June is their normal breeding season. Nests can be located on the ground or up to three metres above it. Robins will readily use nest boxes of the open type. Like so many other species they will also use dense ivy or cavities in ivy-covered trees. FoodA wide variety of invertebrates is taken, including bugs, flies, spiders and harvestmen, beetles and their larvae, usually from the ground. Meal worms are a favourite food when provided at the bird table. Seeds and berries are also favoured. PlantsAlder buckthorn, Californian lilac, Dogwood, Hawthorn, Holly, Ivy, Pedunculate oak, Spindle PreyAphids, Beetles, Brandling worm, Bugs, Common earthworm, Flies, Geophilus carpophagus, Moths, Nephrotoma quadrifaria, September cranefly, Spiders and harvestmen, Weevils, Woodlice/Millipedes/Centipedes, Worms PredatorsCarrion crow, Jay, Little owl, Magpie, Sparrowhawk | 
