Expert: Julia Booth - 6/22/2010

Question
We had three baby robins in a tree beside our screened porch.  It was enjoyable watching mom and dad care for them.  At about 7 - 10 days, this morning, they were gone.  Since part of the next is pulled down, I am assuming that a cat or other predator took them.  The parents remain on cables near the nest this morning, chirping and sometimes with worms or other in their mouths.  They and 2 or 3 other robins swooped and were carrying on when my husband went past the tree to water plants.  Any notes on the parents' behavior?  Are they still seeking?  Do they mourn? It's very sad.

Answer
Yes, they mourn. And robins are especially known for this. Both parents participate in caring for the young. They will actually continue to feed their offspring, even after they have fledged the nest. I have seen a robin try to revive its dead baby and taking hours to realize it was dead. Saddest thing ever.

It’s not too late for them to lay another clutch, which is what I suspect they will do.


Sorry to hear about this,


Julia