Have you tried counting robins lately? This week it’s been a challenge.
Though it may seem pointless I usually count birds when I’m outdoors. The reward comes later when I look back at the numbers.
Based on my counts I know that a first wave of migrating American robins came through Pittsburgh in September. Their numbers dropped, but a second wave arrived last week to feast on the fruit in the city’s trees and bushes.
Unfortunately these birds are camouflaged by the autumn foliage. Rust-and-brown robins match rust-and-brown leaves. On walks in Brookline, Oakland and Squirrel Hill I counted 20, 50, 100 robins. Why the round numbers? I don’t know exactly how many there were.
All I know for sure is: There are lots of robins right now.
(photo by Marcy Cunkleman)
I had a big flock of Robins come through our townhouse complex last weekend; between the huge night crawlers and dogwood berries, it’s a general thrush paradise. I always find it a little disorienting to hear them sing what I consider “spring” or territorial type songs this time of year. Do they serve a food source/territory claiming purpose during fall migration as well?
Carolyn, in the winter robins do get territorial about fruit sources and will chase intruders (especially other species) away from their favorite fruit tree. I’m not sure if this leads them to sing.
The crows are back too. Waves of them came over the PepBoys store on Baum Blvd about 6 this evening while we were waiting for my car to be healed.
Anne