No
doubt about it – it's been a long harsh winter and we're desperately seeking
signs of spring. But some might think they are hallucinating – did you hear
that distinctive trill of a robin? Is that a robin – the traditional harbinger
of spring – perched right there in the trees near Reamer Campus Center? Yes and
yes – you can believe your ears and eyes.
Apparently
there are some hardy robins who decided they've had it with that annual long
flight south. These resourceful snow birds have been wintering through here on
campus for years. The question is – how do they do it?
Carl
George, professor emeritus of biology, is an avian expert and veteran birder. He explained that robins are not always
migratory. Those on campus have figured out where the snow melts
early, he said, and live on dried wild fruits, such as berries. And what makes
the College's campus particularly inviting to the robins is the network of
underground steam pipe conduits. Prof. George said the birds have discovered
that these warm spots in the lawn allow the worms to become available earlier.
The
robins are also sustained by the unique fruit-bearing tree plantings throughout
the campus, especially those in Jackson's Garden. Among their favorites, he said, are the
crab apple, buckthorn, and hawthorn.
So
even if the Union robins aren't a sign of spring, they still can be admired for
their tenacious survival skills and their song that reminds us of warmer days
to come.