First Sign of Spring: The Michigan Robin

Less than a week until March is here and the signs of spring start rolling in. One of those signs is the robin.

While you watch for spring and take the appropriate steps to prepare your garden for warm weather, here are some fun things to know about the robin and how to attract it to your yard.

The robin

The red-breasted robin has been the official state bird of Michigan for nearly 86 years now. The Michigan Audubon Society pushed for its adoption as state bird until legislators made it official in 1931.

In warmer weather, it can be seen often on lawns looking for worms, bugs, seeds and berries. It likes to nests in shrubs, trees and sheltered windowsills.

When you wake up in the morning and hear the birds singing, robins are usually the first to make their voices heard. It’s always a nice sound, because it means beautiful birds and beautiful weather!

There are plenty of fun facts surrounding the robin and its path to becoming the Michigan state bird.

Attracting birds

It might not be warm just yet, but that doesn’t have to deter you from preparing your yard for warmer weather and the arrival of robins and other birds. There are great steps you can take during the colder season to attract birds to your yard and keep them there.

The main things needed in a bird-friendly garden are food, water and shelter from the elements and predators. Remember: A happy bird is a bird that will return.

English Gardens feed and suet will keep feathered friends fueled until Spring arrives.  Come by any location, and our Associates can help you find the best feed for attracting your favorite birds!

If you’re interested in bird watching, don’t be put off by the weather. You can keep birds around all year. 

When you see a robin, try to snap a picture and share it with us! We’ll share it with the rest of those waiting excitedly for spring.