FAUNA and FUNGHI of MALTA (www.MaltaFauna.com) Erithacus rubecula  (Linnaeus, 1758) Taxonomical Classification:  Animalia / Chordata / Aves / Passeriformes / Muscicapidae European Robin     Pitiross Further Information: "The adult European Robin is 12.5-14.0 cm long and weighs 16-22 g, with a wingspan of 20-22 cm. The male and female bear similar plumage; an orange breast and face, lined by a bluish grey on the sides of the neck and chest. The upperparts are brownish, or olive-tinged in British birds, and the belly whitish, while the legs and feet are brown. The bill and eyes are black. Juveniles are a spotted brown and white in colouration, with patches of orange gradually appearing. Till the recent past, the robin was hugely trapped by locals from teenagers to adults alike, mainly for its attractive appearance and vocalisation. They used to be placed in a very small cage (""gabjetta"") and many such trapped specimen would die. Some were caught for selling, and one would see several cages sold in the main local Market in Valletta or pet shops. Thanks to the effort by Birdlife Malta and Natre trust, the species is now protected and became illegal to trap and posses. Consequently, such trapping activities, although not completely stopped, have diminished significantly. As a result one can appreciated this species more regularly in the wil, mainly during the Aurumn and Winter seasons. " Search for Erithacus rubecula  in the following online resources: Search on Google Google Scholar More info on Wikipedia Global Biodiversity NCBI Database Watch on YouTube Other Links and info Funghi & Fauna Main Page Wild Plants Main Index Close This Window Image Code: ERIT-RUB (required to buy images in this page) This website needs financial support through sponsors or advertisment - check here . All material and data on this webpage (www.MaltaWildPlants.com) is under the copyright of Stephen Mifsud (2002-2018) This environment and biodiversity awareness website about the flora and fauna of Malta is sponsored by: