European Robin (Robin Redbreast): Inner Fierceness

From his tree branch, European Robin cheerfully sings through the day. In the woods, his rich fluted warbling songs can be often heard. While singing at twilight, European Robin is often mistaken for Nightingale.

Singing loudly is how this small Bird defends his territory. European Robin warns others of his presence with his songs. If they ignore Him, then He will boldly attack anyone who comes near.

European Robin’s boldness extends to looking for food among Wild Boars. In addition, He will nest near people: in their flower pots, umbrella stands, or window ledges. His audacity makes European Robin sacred to Thor, the Norse God of Thunder.

His red breast marks European Robin as THE ROBIN. All other Birds with red breasts who were discovered later are called “Robin”. However, these other Birds are not often relatives of European Robin.

European Robin’s name has an interesting history. From a custom of adding human names to animals, “Robin” was added to Redbreast in the 15th Century. Meanwhile, in the United States, European Robin was called English Robin to differentiate Him from their American Robin. (The North American Robin is a Thrush, while European Robin is a member of the Flycatcher Family.)

Because of his red breast, European Robin is often associated with Christ. When this Bird tried to comfort Jesus on the Cross, his breast became covered with Christ’s blood. In another story, European Robin was pierced in his breast when He tried to remove the Crown of Thorns from Christ’s head.

In addition, people also associate European Robin with the dead. If He comes across an unattended body, European Robin will cover it with leaves and moss. In Purgatory, He fetches water for thirsty souls. When European Robin tried to quench the fires of Hell, his breast was burned.

Tiny European Robin possesses inner fierceness. He tried to put out the fires Hell by Himself. He walks among Wild Boars searching for earthworms. European Robin is rewarded for his inner fierceness by being a companion of Thunder Gods. However, do not become so aggressive that you are a tiny terror.