Besides offering beautiful beaches, the Great Lakes State is home to numerous wildlife animal species, including its official state bird, the American Robin.
What does the Michigan state bird look like?
As one of the most widespread bird species found in North America, the Michigan state bird, or the American Robin, is easy to spot and fun to watch. The American Robin’s most distinctive characteristic is undoubtedly its dull red breast and belly. The bird is about eight and a half inches long, and besides its red underside, it is covered with black, white and grey feathers.
The American Robin’s head is covered with black or dark grey feathers and has a throat streaked with white feathers. Its back is mostly grey and under its tail, the Michigan state bird has white feathers. The American Robin has a white ring around its eyes and sings lovely melodies through a thin, yellow bill. Female American Robins are similar in appearance, but their coloring is a bit paler. It’s a little tougher to spot a young American Robin because their breasts and bellies are spotted white and have not yet developed the red hue.
Where can I find the Michigan state bird?
If you live in the United States, you probably won’t have to look any further than your back yard to spot an American Robin. The Michigan state bird can be found in residential areas during the breeding season, but during autumn and winter many migrate south in large flocks. Originally a forest species, the American Robin has adapted to urban areas and some can be found nesting in city parks or even in your own garden. Not just found in the United States, the American Robin also calls parts of Canada and Mexico home.
What are some interesting characteristics of the Michigan state bird?
Designated the Michigan state bird way back in 1931, the American Robin is known for its songs. In fact, the American Robin is one of the first birds you will hear in the morning and one of the last you will hear singing before you go to bed.
Besides its song, the Michigan state bird has another interesting oral characteristic. The American Robin has a canal between its mouth and stomach where it can store fruits and seeds. Usually the Michigan state bird will store the food before it settles for the night, the extendible esophagus allows for the bird to survive during low temperatures.
