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Rare European Robin Stuns Montrealers This Winter
10 Feb
Summary
- A rare European robin was spotted in Montreal during a cold winter.
- This marks the first recorded sighting of the species in Canada.
- Experts speculate storms or cargo ships brought the bird to North America.
A rare European robin has become a major attraction for birdwatchers in Montreal this winter. The bird, normally found in Western Europe, was first spotted in early January, marking the first-ever confirmed sighting in Canada and one of few in North America. Its unexpected presence has puzzled ornithologists, who are considering theories like accidental transport by storms or cargo ships.
The robin's survival in Montreal's harsh winter, with temperatures dropping to -25C, is also a point of interest. While its typical diet consists of insects, it is omnivorous and is being sustained by bird fans. Experts note that food availability is key to its survival.
This remarkable event highlights the increasing phenomenon of 'vagrant' birds appearing outside their usual ranges, potentially influenced by climate change and altered storm patterns. Similar unusual sightings, like a taiga flycatcher in Vancouver and a Steller's sea eagle in Newfoundland, have also occurred recently in Canada, suggesting a broader trend of species displacement.
