The Mexican robin (Turdus migratorius phillipsi) is a resident subspecies (American Robin) found across the highlands of central and southern Mexico.

Slightly smaller than northern robins with a rusty orange breast, this tenacious bird makes its home year-round in the mountain forests and scrublands of Mexico’s diverse landscape. Let’s take a closer look at this southern songster.

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Scientific Classification

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Aves
Order: Passeriformes
Family: Turdidae
Genus: Turdus
Species: T. migratorius
Subspecies: T. m. phillipsi (Mexican Robin)

Identification

The Mexican robin has rich rusty orange underparts unlike the brick-red of northern robins. The back is grayish-brown. The head is black with white around the eyes. The legs are long and the bill is large and yellow-tinged. Sexes appear similar. Juveniles are spotted below.

Location

The Mexican robin resides year-round in the highlands of central and southern Mexico, from Jalisco to Oaxaca. It inhabits mountain forests, oak scrub, and arid pine-oak woodlands up to 10,000 feet elevation.

Interesting Facts

The Mexican robin population is estimated at 1-2 million.
It has a beautiful flute-like song used to declare breeding territories.
Its large bill helps it forage and consume larger prey.
The diet consists of fruits, berries, worms, insects, snails, and lizards.
Pairs may stay together across multiple breeding seasons.

Status

With declining habitat, the Mexican robin is classified as Near Threatened by the IUCN Red List. Protecting mountain forest habitats is crucial for preserving this unique highland subspecies.

Conservation of Natural Habitat

Preserving the natural habitats of the Mexican robin is vital for its survival. Conservation efforts should focus on protecting the diverse environments it inhabits, including forests, woodlands, and open areas.

Addressing habitat fragmentation and promoting sustainable land use practices are essential steps in conserving their natural habitat.

Frequently Asked Questions

01. How does the Mexican robin differ from northern robins?

Mexican robins are smaller with a larger bill. Males have rusty orange underparts unlike the brick-red of northern robins. They do not migrate.

02. What is the habitat of the Mexican robin?

High-elevation mountain forests, oak and pine-oak woodlands, and scrublands from central through southern Mexico.

03. What conservation efforts help the Mexican robin?

Protection of remaining highland forests and scrub through parks and reserves. Reforestation of native trees. Reduced pesticide uses in robin habitats.

04. Is the Mexican robin migratory or resident?

The Mexican robin is a resident species, meaning it does not undertake long-distance migrations. It resides in Mexico, primarily ranging from central Mexico to central Oaxaca throughout the year.

Summary

The Mexican robin is a resident songster of Mexico’s diverse mountain ranges and arid scrublands. This rusty-breasted robin fills the forests with its exuberant song. Ensuring protected areas and habitat connectivity will allow these robins to thrive in their rugged homeland.