I am the UK's favourite bird,
Of that there is no doubt.
Small and round and red of breast,
You'll know when I'm about.

The first to sing at break of dawn,
The last to sing at night,
Worms and insects are my prey
And serve my appetite.

The neighbourhood wherein I live
I fiercely do defend;
Should other robins enter in
I'll swiftly apprehend.

The gardener's friend, I get quite tame
And closely watch each dig.
I'll even sit upon the spade
When workers have a swig.

I'm known to often make my nest
In junk that suits me fine;
Kettles, teapots left outside...
Hop in, I'll make them mine.

Throughout the year I'll be around;
In winter I'll impress,
For I'll turn up in every post--
On Christmas cards no less!


© by Nick Balmforth.
Used with the author’s permission.