The resilient American robin has made its much-anticipated return to northern Alaska, marking a significant moment in the seasonal rhythm of the region.
Perched atop a balsam poplar tree on the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus, a male robin emits its familiar and complex song. This melodic sound not only brings a sense of nostalgia but also signals the approach of spring for many across North America.
From the busy sidewalks of the Bronx to the car windows of Los Angeles, the robin’s tune is widely recognized, making it a contender for the most conspicuous wild animal in North America.
The annual arrival of this songbird transports many to memories of childhood, such as standing in itchy Little League uniforms on sun-drenched fields.
Despite its prevalence, the American robin sometimes does not receive the recognition it deserves. With an estimated population of 370 million, according to biologists at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, robins outnumber the 340 million American humans counted during the 2019 census.
Between 1966 and 2019, the population of American robins has seen moderate growth at about 0.13% per year, as reported by scientists involved in the North American Breeding Bird Survey. This increase poses the question: why are American robins thriving while many songbird species face sharp declines?
One contributing factor is the robin’s remarkable tolerance of human activity. Unlike many songbirds that shy away from human-made structures, robins often nest in urban settings, demonstrating their adaptability.
Additionally, the long-standing practice of clearing forests for farms and lawns in North America has proved beneficial for robins by creating abundant habitats rich in earthworms, which are a primary food source for these birds.
Although earthworms thrive in many areas, they are scarce in Alaska. Consequently, robins in the state rely on an alternative diet, indulging in insects and the fruits of human-planted trees.
In Alaska, robins can be commonly found in bustling urban areas as well as remote villages. Remarkably, they also thrive far from human settlements; ten years ago, on an adventure in the upper Chandalar River’s boreal forest, a group of meteorite enthusiasts stumbled upon numerous robin nests nestled within low spruce trees, painting a picture of life teeming in untouched wilderness.
Interestingly, not all robins migrate from Alaska. Many choose to spend their winters in cities such as Anchorage and on the southern coastal regions of the state. However, a significant number of robins have recently returned to northern Alaska, representing millions of individuals embarking on their annual journey.
These migratory birds brave numerous hazards while flying thousands of miles, enriching the soundscape of Alaska as they resume their seasonal activities. Their return heralds the cycle of life and creation, as they begin the task of fostering the next generation of robins for North America.
As these iconic birds settle back into their northern habitats, their presence offers a retreat from the modern world, establishing a connection that many people cherish, strengthening the bond between nature and community.
image source from：https://www.adn.com/alaska-news/science/2025/05/23/both-conspicuous-and-ubiquitous-the-american-robin-returns-to-alaska-on-time/
