Tales of Little Robin Redbreast

The European Robin (Erithacus rubecula) is a charming bird, common throughout Europe. Its bright orange-red breast and gentle warbling song make it easily recognizable but it remains an elusive, shy bird throughout much of its range. Yet in Great Britain the robin has made a friendly pact with gardeners and backyard birdwatchers alike and the species is tamer there than it is throughout the rest of its range.

The robin is, historically, adapted to follow foraging animals (such as wild boar) as they dig through soil. The robin takes advantage of the boar's digging activities, swooping down to pick up any insects and grubs that have been unearthed. In present-day Great Britain, robins have found a superb substitute for wild boar: the gardener.

Together, the robin's tameness, its melodic song, pugnacious behavior, and red-breasted beauty have made this perky bird a natural superstar. This little bird has starred in nursery rhymes, numerous folklore stories, and on many a Christmas card.

The nursery rhyme, 'Little Robin Redbreast' is among the most familiar narratives featuring the robin:

Little Robin Redbreast sat upon a tree,
Up climbed pussycat and down went he,
Down came pussycat, away Robin ran.
Says little Robin Redbreast, "Catch me if you can."

Little Robin Redbreast flew upon a wall,
Pussycat jumped after him, and almost had a fall.
Little Robin chirped and sang and what did pussy say?
Pussycat said, "Mew," and Robin flew away.

The folklore surrounding the robin is rich and in it, the rusty-chested bird is often viewed as a symbol of charity and compassion. A number of stories seek to explain the origin of the bird's red breast and pious nature. One such tale says that as Jesus was on his way to be crucified, the robin removed a thorn from his crown that was piercing his forehead. In doing so, the robin was said to be pierced in the breast, marking its feathers with its own blood (it is this tale that has earned the robin a place on the front of many Christmas cards). Another tale states that the robin's breast was singed while fanning the fire to warm baby Jesus.

While these folklore stories remain outside the realm of science, it is clear that the European robin has captivated many a fan and will continue to do so for many years to come.

Find out more:

• Little Robin Redbreast Nursery Rhyme (mamalisa.com)
• Robin Folklore and Superstition (icons.org.uk)

Photo © Andrew Howe / iStockPhoto.