Why Male Robins are so butch!

This belligerent and rather butch looking male robin is giving us the eye through our lounge window. It is a threatening stare from a dominant male who is very sure of its territory. Male robins may hold the same territory throughout their lives, and will even attack a bundle of red feathers or their own reflection if they mistake it for another individual. It will sing to defend its territory.

The male in its territory seeks a favourable lookout post. It will not tolerate another robin nearby.

They like human company because we provide food and nesting sites for them. They regard us as waiters always providing food for them.

Their cheeky attitudes have endeared robin redbreasts to the British public, and in 1960 they were crowned the UK's national bird. The male and female are similar in colouration.