In this small corner of Gippsland, (Victoria, Australia), the winter months are the time for the ‘red’ Robins to migrate down from the mountains to the more open lower country. They are always a delight to see as they hunt for insects and spiders, mostly on the ground, by their characteristic ‘perch and pounce’ technique.

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Three species have appeared so far this year, the more common Scarlet Robin with its black upper parts, white forehead patch, scarlet chest and black chin. We also have the Flame Robin with dark grey upper parts, white forehead patch and a flame red breast and chin. The far less common bird for us this year has been the appearance of a Red-capped Robin. This Robin is far more widespread in its range than the other two, but seldom appears this side of the Great Dividing Range, so it was a real delight to see one. The Red-cap is a similar but slightly smaller bird to the Scarlet but with a characteristic scarlet cap.

Now, wouldn’t it be nice to complete the picture with two further species, a ‘Rose’ and a ‘Pink’?  Not quite as easy to find, those two!

You might like to check my blog on Gippsland nature.