The American Robin Loves Berries

A single robin can eat a substantial amount of berries, particularly during the peak berry season. On average, a robin may consume around 30 to 100 berries a day, depending on availability and its energy needs. They often eat various berries, including those from holly, mulberry, and serviceberry bushes.

Berries are generally low in calories but rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. For example, common berries like blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are high in vitamin C, fiber, and various phytonutrients, making them a nutritious food source.

In preparation for migration, robins typically increase their body weight by about 20-30%. This weight gain helps provide the energy needed for their long flights. Depending on the size of the individual robin, this can amount to a few grams, which is significant considering their overall body weight.

Robins migrate varying distances depending on their specific population. In North America, many eastern robins migrate between their breeding grounds in the northern United States and Canada to wintering areas in the southern U.S. and Mexico. This journey can be around 1,000 to 3,000 miles. Some robins, especially those in milder climates, may not migrate at all and instead remain year-round in their habitat.

The Robins in the photographs are the last migrating birds I have seen this fall. They have lots of berry trees, and thus, from my count, there would be at least 50 plus in a flock.