Rødstrupe

Rødstrupe is the common name for the European Robin, a small passerine bird that is a familiar sight across Europe. Scientifically known as Erithacus rubecula, it belongs to the family Muscicapidae, which also includes Old World flycatchers. The Rødstrupe is easily recognizable by its distinctive bright red or orange breast and face, which contrasts sharply with its olive-brown upperparts and greyish underbelly. This coloration is present in both males and females, though males are generally slightly larger and may have a more intense red hue.

These birds are relatively small, measuring around 12.5 to 14 cm in length and weighing between 16 to 22 grams. Their song is a clear, warbling melody, often heard throughout the year, particularly at dawn and dusk. Rødstrupe are primarily insectivorous, feeding on a variety of invertebrates such as worms, insects, spiders, and slugs, especially during the breeding season. In autumn and winter, they supplement their diet with berries and seeds.

The Rødstrupe is known for its bold and often curious nature, frequently approaching humans in gardens and parks. While they are often seen as solitary birds, they form pairs during the breeding season. The nest is typically built in a concealed location, such as a hole in a wall, a dense bush, or even a discarded tin can, and is usually made of moss, grass, and feathers. The female lays a clutch of 4-7 eggs, which are incubated for about 13-15 days. Both parents care for the young, which fledge after approximately 14-16 days. The Rødstrupe is a widely distributed species, found in woodland, parks, gardens, and hedgerows.