Robins are the ultimate early birds. They are also one of the first signs of spring. We see them wandering around the yard after a long, bitter winter and our hearts lighten. Yes! Spring cannot be that far away, it is right at the door knocking!! Our feathered friends have arrived with their bright orange breasts, signaling the soon-to-be warmer temps and trees leafing out. 

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Summer then comes along with balmy days, flowers, green grass, grilled burgers, and bare feet. The sun is showing itself earlier and earlier in the mornings during summer months. And guess who is chirping his little heart out earlier and earlier? The robin!

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It is amazing! He begins way before sunrise, while it is still dark. Does he know how early it is? I'm not complaining. If you ask me, it is a cheery way to start the day, but I know not everyone would agree. We all have our preferred ways of beginning our days, like with quietness and peace. And I have to admit it ... I have been known to shut the windows when the robins are just a bit too loud at an early hour.

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So the question is why does the robin's musical production start so very early? There are several explanations...

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It is the male robins who are our pre-dawn chirpers. They are essentially "strutting their stuff", showing off, proving their robust strength. They do this to attract potential mates or impress their current mate. They are showing that after a long night of avoiding predators and not eating and enduring cooler temps, they are still a force to be reckoned with. They are showing they are strong, energetic, and quite impressive after the stresses of nighttime risks. 

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Moreover, there is not much going on in the early hours of the day. That hinders finding a good breakfast, as it is more difficult because of the dim light and the insects are still inactive. Therefore, the robins are more vocal as there is not the pursuit of breakfast to distract them.

 

It is also easier to defend their territory with vigorous singing at this time of day,

as the early morning hours offer the benefit of sound traveling further. This is due to the cooler air temps and less active air currents. Furthermore, there is less noise to compete against at this early hour.

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So next time you hear the robins' chorus during the dark pre-dawn hours, at least you now know why they are such early birds who love to belt out their ballads! Michael Buble just might have some tough competition with these guys!