Photo of the Month, Robin (Erithacus rubecula)

The red breasted Robin (Erithacus rubecula) looks as pretty as a picture on many Christmas cards that are about to adorn our fireplaces as it is portrayed as a bird of peace especially if taken amongst a snowy backdrop.

They are very easily identified by their red breast and are a very friendly little bird following you everywhere about the garden curious as to what you are doing and chattering away to you like an old friend, especially if the work includes some digging at the ground.

Both males and females are very territorial and defend their territories all year round.This is done by their fine singing. It is one of the earliest birds to sing at dawn, and often continue until the lights are turned on in our homes in the early evening.

Many Robins prefer a meal of fat and cheese, cake and fruit instead of peanuts. However, their favourite is mealworms.

They like to nest in the most unlikely of places, even in a garden shed so long as there is an entrance and exit for them. They will nest in nestboxes which are very well concealed and are sufficiently located from the ground.