By A Humble Observer of Feathered Folk
This morning, the garden was draped in its usual misty shawl, dew clinging to the grass like tiny stars from the sky. I settled on my favourite bench with a mug of tea and a biscuit of questionable structural integrity, when — as if summoned by the steam — he appeared.
He perched on the fencepost with the confidence of an old friend dropping by unannounced, puffed his red chest like a polite hello, and gave me that knowing, sideways look. You know the one: half curiosity, half accusation. As if he’d been waiting to see if I remembered the sugar for his tea (I hadn’t).
Now, I know I may be projecting — one minute you’re naming a squirrel Gerald, the next you’re embroiled in a psychological debate with a sparrow about seed distribution. But this robin — seems to recognise me.
Not just “human with snacks” recognise. More… familiar. He lands closer than he does to others. He chirps differently when I talk. Last week, he even brought a leaf, dropped it at my feet, then stared at me as if awaiting applause. Was it a gift? A warning? A birdly inside joke?
Do Robins Recognise Humans?
According to the clever folk in lab coats, robins can remember individual humans, especially those who feed them. They may even associate our faces, voices, and habits with safety or food. It’s not friendship as we know it, but perhaps it’s the bird version of, “Oh, you again — you’re alright.”
And that’s enough for me.
He’s back again now, as I write this, tilting his head in that charmingly suspicious way. Maybe tomorrow, he’ll tell me his name.
Until then,
From the garden fence, with tea and tailfeathers,
Yours in whimsy,
– The Birdwatching Rambler
Read more:
- Robin’s Nest: Tales From The Feathered World
- Red Feathers In The Morning Light: Getting To Know The Robin (With Free Printable Colouring Page)
- The Robin Diaries: A Year In The Life Of A Songbird
- Wings Of Time: The Life Of A Robin
- Chirpy Secrets: 10 Fascinating Facts About The European Robin (With Free Printable Watercolour Illustration)
- The Robin’s Song 🎵
- From Birds To Pages: How My Birding Journal Tells A Story (With Examples & Free Printable Colouring Page)
- A Birding Journal
- A Quick & Easy Step-by-Step Tree Drawing for Beginners
Want to learn how to draw a tree without feeling overwhelmed? Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a simple creative break, this beginner-friendly guide will walk you through an easy step-by-step method to draw a classic tree — no fancy tools or skills needed — it’s just one I made digitally on my … Read more - Sketching Quick Bare Trees: A Quiet Winter Ritual
There’s something quietly poetic about the silhouette of a bare tree. Without its cloak of leaves, the tree stands—honest in form, revealing every branch and limb like veins under translucent skin. For nature diary keepers, sketching these skeletal trees can be a gentle way to connect more deeply with the landscape and sharpen one’s eye … Read more - The Beginner’s Guide to Nature Journalling
Welcome to the Stillness In a world that spins fast, where screens flicker and notifications demand constant attention, the quiet rhythms of the natural world offer something profoundly rare: stillness. When we step outside, even for a few minutes, we begin to feel it—the slow turning of the seasons, the subtle shift in light, the … Read more - Meet the European Robin: A Fact-Packed Guide to This Beloved Bird (With A Free Watercolour Illustration)
The European robin (Erithacus rubecula) is one of the most recognisable and beloved birds in Europe. With its red feathers and cheery song, this small songbird has become a symbol of winter, frequently appearing in festive imagery, holiday cards, and even folklore. Despite its common presence in gardens, parks, and woodlands across Europe, there is … Read more - From Birds to Pages: How My Birding Journal Tells a Story (With Examples & Free Printable Colouring Page)
Birdwatching is more than just an activity—it’s a passion, a deep connection with nature, and a way to capture fleeting moments that often go unnoticed. Over the years, I’ve discovered that one of the best ways to truly appreciate and immerse myself in this hobby is through journalling. My birding journal is not just a … Read more - Tea with a Robin: Notes from the Garden Fence
By A Humble Observer of Feathered Folk This morning, the garden was draped in its usual misty shawl, dew clinging to the grass like tiny stars from the sky. I settled on my favourite bench with a mug of tea and a biscuit of questionable structural integrity, when — as if summoned by the steam … Read more - The Sleeping Habits Of A Robin: How Many Hours Do Robins Sleep For (With A Free Sleep Log Template)
European robins (Erithacus rubecula) are one of the most beloved and recognisable birds across Europe, known for their red feathered chests and cheerful songs. But aside from their charming appearance, there’s much to learn about their daily behaviours, including their sleep patterns. If you’ve ever wondered how many hours a robin sleeps, and how you … Read more - Robins & Their Favourite Foods: From Worms 🪱 to Berries 🫐 (With Free Printable Hand-Illustrated Art)
Robins are one of the most familiar and beloved birds in gardens and parks. Their vibrant red feathers at the front and cheerful song signal the arrival of spring for many people, but what really brings them to your backyard? The answer is simple: food. Robins are omnivores, and their diet is both varied and … Read more - Where Do Robin Fledglings Go When They Leave the Nest? 🪹
As spring blooms and the sound of birdsong fills the air, one of the most exciting events in the lives of many bird enthusiasts is the appearance of robin fledglings. These young birds, often seen fluttering awkwardly around the yard, represent a major milestone in the life cycle of a robin. But once they leave … Read more - How Robins Choose Their Sleep Spots: Insights Into Their Night-time Behaviour 🌜
Robins are one of the most beloved and recognisable birds, often seen hopping around backyards, parks, and gardens. With their vibrant red-orange chests and cheerful songs, they’re a favourite among birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. But have you ever wondered where robins sleep? While these birds are quite active during the day, their night-time behaviour is … Read more - Are You Seeing a Male or Female Robin? Here’s How to Tell
While male and female robins may look quite similar at first glance, there are subtle differences that can help you tell them apart. In this post, I’ll guide you through the key signs that distinguish male and female robins in the UK, making your next birdwatching experience all the more exciting. Read more: 1. Colouration: … Read more - The Robin’s Song 🎵
Upon the branch so high and freeA robin sings to wake the treeWith feathers of red and voice so brightIt calls the world to morning lightThrough budding spring and autumn’s hueIt flits beneath the sky so blueA streak of warmth in winter’s chillA herald bold, yet soft and stillIt hops upon the garden bedWhere worms … Read more
