I never thought I’d see an American Robin nesting in August, but I have. August in Arkansas should be too hot for robins to be nesting now. I guess it’s not.
American Robin with nesting material – Canon R7, f8, 1/400, ISO 1600, Canon 100-400mm at 400mm, natural light
Three days ago, I noticed an American Robin poking around in the grasses. I thought it was looking for food.
It wasn’t; the robin was searching for nesting material on a day when the temperature was almost 100°F. I quickly got my camera on the robin and took a few images of the bird.
American Robin nesting in August – Canon R7, f8, 1/400, ISO 1600, Canon 100-400mm at 400mm, natural light
Looking through my viewfinder, I double-checked to make sure it wasn’t food the robin held in its bill; it was nesting material.
Over the next two days, I observed an American Robin searching for and finding nesting materials. I also noticed that it always flew to the same spot in a pine tree while carrying the materials. There is no mistaking it—this robin is building a nest during the hot days of August in Arkansas.
It seems too hot for that to me.
But what do I know? I’m not that robin. I’m just a human struggling in the heat and humidity.
One American Robin in the yard recently lost a nest, which was found on the ground without eggs or chicks. This might even be the same robin trying to build a new nest.
I did some research and found that it is not typical for American Robins to nest in August in Arkansas. At all.
But my eyes aren’t lying to me. This American Robin is building a nest. And that? It’s strange.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my American Robin photos plus facts and information about this species.
Interesting post. I didn’t know that Robin’s normally don’t build nests in August. Good pics. Thanks Mia.
She looks tired. Hope she’s not playing, “Third time’s the charm,” but after Steve’s description of his backyard bluebirds, I’m not sure. Sending her all the good vibes. 💜
Never say never. And I hope the robin is successful.