jml297

(Eopsaltria — dawn harpist — Australis — southern)

The Eastern Yellow Robin is one of my favourite birds, and I’ve spotted them in many locations on the east coast of Australia. More recently, though, there have been regular sightings of these birds in my garden.

The photo above was taken at Mt York in the upper Blue Mountains when I was wandering along on a trail. The bright yellow breast of the robin was a beacon among the sombre green and grey gums, and these birds seem particularly willing to remain still long enough for a photo to be taken.

Australian robins are flycatchers, and are often spotted as they cling sideways to a branch or tree, quite close to the ground, watching out for insects. They can be found in urban areas as well as treed habitats along eastern Australia and inland areas.

They are one of the first birds to greet the new day, and this is reflected in their Latin name. Early of a morning, there is usually a kookaburra or two on a branch in my garden, watchful for any insects and the like. It is regularly joined by a robin, perched nearby on a tree trunk.

Male and female birds look the same, and they are often seen alone but form small family groups. They breed from June to February, and have up to three broods.

Seeing these beautiful birds up close always brings me joy. You can find out more about Eastern Yellow Robins here, and there is a gorgeous photo of one on a nest here. Do you have Eastern Yellow Robins in your area?

Photo: Eastern Yellow Robin in my garden