Merle d'Amérique

Le merle d'Amérique (Turdus migratorius), appelé American robin en anglais, est un oiseau chanteur de la famille des turdidés présent en Amérique du Nord.

The American robin (Turdus migratorius) is a songbird of the thrush family (Turdidae) found in North America. It is recognizable by its orange-red breast, grey back, and frequent presence on lawns, parks, and gardens. Despite its French name 'merle d'Amérique', it is not closely related to the European robin. In Canada, it is a well-known bird, nesting across the country and frequenting cities, parks, and gardens; Canadian sources describe it as common and abundant.

Description

The American robin is a medium to large songbird with an orange-red breast, grey back, and pale eye ring. Females are generally duller than males, and juveniles often have spotted breasts.

Distribution and habitat

The species is widely distributed in North America, from Canada through much of the United States and into Mexico. It inhabits natural environments as well as urban spaces such as lawns, parks, and gardens.

Feeding and behaviour

The American robin feeds mainly on earthworms, insects, and various fruits, with seasonal and daily variations. It is often observed on the ground searching for food, and its song is frequently associated with spring.

Reproduction

The female builds a cup-shaped nest from grasses, twigs, moss, and mud. The eggs are typically pale blue to blue-green, and breeding occurs across much of the North American range.

Conservation status

The American robin is a common and abundant species, classified as Least Concern. Canadian sources indicate it faces few major conservation threats.