How to Distinguish a Male & Female Robin

The American robin (Turdus migratorius) is found in many areas across North America. These birds typically breed in Canada and the northern United States, spending cold winter months in warmer areas of the U.S. and down into Mexico. The robins fit into varied environments, from heavily populated urban areas to sparse forests. Determining the sex of a robin is an easy task, as there are a few distinct markings that distinguish a male from a female.

Examine the color of the bird's head. A darker head indicates a male robin, while a pale brownish-gray head means the bird is female.

Examine the belly of the robin. A male robin will have a bright reddish-orange belly, while a female's will be a dull orange.

Look at the color of the robin's throat. A male robin will have a white throat with a black streak down the middle. A female robin will have a pure white throat.

View the underside of the robin's tail. The male robin has white feathers here, while the feathers of a female are a pale gray.