Robin is an alternative name for Redbreast, a contraction of the Old English name Robin Redbreast or simply Redbreast - a far more accurate description of the bird. It was in the 15th century, when it became popular to give human names to familiar species, that the bird came to be known as Robin Redbreast. Other older English names for the bird include ruddock and robinet. Until the early years of the 20th century the robin was usually known as the redbreast and robin skins were popular adornments for ladies’ hats. Each robin has a unique breast pattern, and can possibly be recognised individually. Robins will invariably defend their territories from other robins, sometimes fighting to the death.
