Robin Feeding Frenzy

When we moved into our house six years ago, we were amazed that the holly trees were higher than our two-story roofline. Bright red berries filled the trees during the holidays, providing a natural decoration to keep us in the spirit.

On a cold and snow covered day in February, masses of American Robins descended on the trees in a complete frenzy, just like a riot. Over the course of three days, they lived in the trees on our property and ate every berry while a squirrel screamed at them. Our toddler and infant son spent hours looking out the window at the commotion. We decided that the robins must have been very hungry and could not get to the worms due to the snow.

However, this phenomenon happens every year in February. This was the week! The berries were numerous and now they are all gone.

Since both my kids were home sick, I spent the week in the house and could keep close tabs on the activity. The robins always start at the top of the tree and work their way down. They don’t mind being together in close proximity to each other. Our vehicles and the ground are covered in droppings. They make a big mess! The squirrels didn’t get upset until today, when the berries were almost gone. I guess they are willing to share but not lose all of the food.

When I went outside, several robins would fly down at me as a warning to keep away from their stash. The loud noise from all those birds filled the air. Hundreds of birds dashed this way and that.

Do the robins do this to other holly trees in Rockville during the winter? Have they been to your neighborhood? Do you expect them to visit?

You can report robin sightings to Journey North.

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