THE CHRISTMAS ROBIN SITE

THE REMARKABLE VITEC CHRISTMAS ROBIN PORTRAITS

2011-11-18T18:28:00.000-08:00

VITEC is a brilliant, Berkshire-based, Impressionist painter of birds and wildlife. His technically-masterful and dazzlingly poetic portraits of the Christmas robin have contributed mightily to efforts to keep this holiday tradition alive in our times.

Visit VITEC here:

www.etsy.com/people/VitecArt

CHRISTMAS ROBIN 3D CARD

2011-11-12T17:56:00.000-08:00

www.pasttimes.com

MERRY CHRISTMAS 2010

2010-12-25T18:03:00.000-08:00

Monticello in Winter
www.monticello.org

Greetings from Charlottesville, Virginia!

THE CHRISTMAS ROBIN SITE 2010 STARTS NOW!

2010-08-02T00:21:00.000-07:00

It's the beginning of August 2010, and that means nearly 5 months of preparation for a "Christmas Robin Christmas" at your house. Why 5 months? Because making sure that the household has "Got Christmas Robin?" is not at the top of the priority list for most, so give yourself lead time.

So, check the delightful video of the Christmas robin feeding in the snow to get inspired, and then look below for our first featured item:

Robin Christmas Decoration 5215

Christmas Robin decoration on a metal stick is a handcrafted collectible in a variety of poses on winter nuts!

Assorted designs (as pictured), supplied as available

Approximately 300mm tall
Robin on nut segment is approximately 85mm tall

(This firm says it's a wholesaler, so do what you have to do to get these "must-haves." Ask for the name of his retailer.)

Contact here:

secure.julianroe.co.uk/xmas-figures-decorations--novelties-410-c.asp

ON VACATION

2010-01-25T20:47:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS 2009 FROM THE CHRISTMAS ROBIN SITE

2009-12-25T15:38:00.001-08:00

Christmastide 2009

THE KINDLY ROBIN VICTORIAN CARD PRINT

2009-11-22T13:33:00.001-08:00

"The Kindly Robin", Victorian Christmas Card

The Green Man loves this Victorian print about the Golden Rule. Frame it, but use it at Christmastide only to keep it special. Decorate with pine boughs, a bit of holly, a sprig of juniper with berries, and a fir cone!

www.allposters.com/gallery.asp?startat=%2Fgallery.asp&CID=BB84B1BD0D0541C5BE5FC3D0A4363F2E&txtSearch=kindly+robin

ROBINS IN THE SNOW 3D CHRISTMAS CARD

2009-11-16T07:14:00.000-08:00

This splendid Christmas Robin card is ON BACK ORDER from Past Times, but they will send you an email when it arrives.

www.pasttimes.com/Cards+Stationery/Robins-In-The-Snow-Christmas-Card/invt/820561

ENGLISH CHRISTMAS GIFT WRAP WITH COMPANION TAGS

2009-10-09T06:42:00.001-07:00

A touch of holly green ribbon, and your gift is perfection!

"The nation's favourite bird in a bright Christmas design. Three roll sizes on high quality Christmas wrapping paper, each 50 cm wide. 15 matching tags.

Our high-quality wrapping paper won't let you down this Christmas. Plus, 100% of profits go to conservation. Nature says thanks!"

Visit here:

shopping.rspb.org.uk/p/ChristmasWrap/Red,_red_robin_roll_wrap.htm

CHRISTMAS ROBIN HOLIDAY CARD HOLDER

2009-10-04T21:38:00.000-07:00

Genius!

Everyone loves receiving holiday cards at Christmas, but not many consider how to display them properly. Cards end up neglected in a pile in a basket or in some out-of-the-way corner. Ridiculous!

This marvelous Christmas Robin Holiday Card Holder eliminates the issue of "card carelessness." The Green Man recommends ordering 2 if your holiday household expects to receives more than 30 cards, and they look great displayed as a pair on either side of an entry.

"This card holder is a brilliantly simple way to display your Christmas cards, with an attractive robin and ivy village scene. Hang it anywhere, on the back of a door or from a picture rail. Reusable year after year. Holds 30 cards. 20 cm wide by 100 cm tall."

For ordering and more information, click on linkzilla here:

shopping.rspb.org.uk/p/ChristmasAccessories/Christmas_robins_card_holder.htm

M. MORGAN WARREN CHRISTMAS ROBIN FINE ART PRINT

2009-10-01T21:09:00.001-07:00

"A Christmas Robin", English robin

Available as 9.5" x 11" limited edition fine art print ($95.00)

"M. Morgan Warren has been painting over 24 years and is regarded as one of North America's finest painters of birds. Her award-winning watercolour works are known for their natural charm, anatomical accuracy and meticulous detail.

Her paintings are found in many private collections, including that of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. Shortly after the surprise royal request for presentation of her work to Philip in person, Ms. Warren was granted the rare privilege of making a personal gift of another of her paintings to Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. (Royal protocol ordinarily prohibits personal gifts to the Monarch).

At exclusive invitation of the DeYoung Museum of Fine Arts in San Francisco, she demonstrated Audubon's techniques for visitors to the national Audubon Birds of America Exhibition, March 1996, the first public exhibition of his paintings in over 100 years.

Her work has illustrated the covers of many publications, including the Sierra Club Foundation 1997 Annual Report. Canadians will recognize her 1994-5 and 1995-6 Save the Children Fund cards.

While the waiting list for her original paintings is almost two years, her 33 fine art prints and artcards of 29 species are available. Her studio is located in North Saanich near Victoria, British Columbia, on the east coast of Canada's Vancouver Island near Seattle, Washington."

www.morganwarren.com

CHRISTMAS ROBIN MUG AND COASTER SET - TRES COOL!

2009-09-17T14:53:00.000-07:00

Dimensions: Height 7.5cm Diameter 8.5cm

Christmas Robin Mug and Coaster Set Item #

How wonderful is this for Christmastide holiday tea and coffee?! It's a fine bone china set that's HEIRLOOM quality.

Check it out here along with some additional Christmas robin items:

Simply type robin in the seach box.

www.puckator.co.uk/wholesale/christmas-c-79.html

A beautiful creature! The living spirit of Christmas

CHRISTMAS ROBIN'S EGG SOAP

2009-08-26T00:03:00.001-07:00

Monticello
Greetings from Charlottesville, Virginia

Our new home!

ROBINS EGG SOAP

Robins egg that contains a 3.5 oz apple-cinnamon soap, with a hang chord. Makes a wonderful, simple gift for someone that is thoughtful year round.

Item #: 32506,
Price: $12.50

www.olddurhamroad.com

BRITISH BIRDS CHRISTMAS ROBIN REDBREAST MUG AND COASTER SET

2009-08-01T16:59:00.001-07:00

THE CHRISTMAS ROBIN SITE IS BACK!!! The month of August 2009 is here, and the preparations for a joyful, exciting, and fulfilling CHRISTMAS season has begun.

Begin planning your holidays NOW to avoid that stressed feeling of trying to do much at the last minute. Time management will make you holiday run as flawlessly as a Swiss watch.

THE CHRISTMAS ROBIN SITE kicks off the 2009 season with this classic English porcelain mug and coaster set. If it's for you, check first regarding availability.

BRITISH BIRDS CHRISTMAS ROBIN REDBREAST MUG AND COASTER SET(NIB)

£5.85

BRITISH CHRISTMAS ROBIN REDBREAST MUG AND COASTER SET(NIB). MADE FROM FINE CHINA. COMES NEW IN A BOX. AN IDEAL GIFT FOR ANY BIRD LOVER. FREE POSTAGE TO ALL UK PURCHASERS. INTERNATIONAL BUYERS PLEASE EMAIL FOR POSTAGE RATES.

bookendz.biz/china-c-65.html

ON EXTENDED LEAVE

2009-05-03T13:37:00.000-07:00

MORE CHRISTMAS ROBINS FOR THE PRE-SEASON!

2009-04-17T14:09:00.000-07:00

Great Scot! The Green Man decided to see if anyone had realized that there might be a market for Christmas Robin barware and glassware. Well, the Cafe Press people got their act together, and they offer a whopping 77 new items at their web site, emblazoned with this delightful Christmas robin design pictured above!

shop.cafepress.com/design/21599737

THE CHRISTMAS ROBIN SITE REOPENS AUGUST 1ST, 2009

2009-04-08T18:59:00.000-07:00

A plump and contented Christmas robin from master painter Vitec

vitec-painting.blogspot.com

The Green Man published the last seasonal blog post on January 31st, 2009. He ought to have stated that The Christmas Robin Site will resume publishing for the 2009 holiday season on AUGUST 1st, 2009. Thank you!

100% COTTON HEIRLOOM-QUALITY CHRISTMAS ROBIN TEA TOWELS

2009-01-31T22:04:00.000-08:00

The Green Man likes these 100% cotton tea towels because of the quality of the illustration and the fact that they are heirloom-ready. Price is quite reasonable.

www.simplyent.co.uk/product/robin_tea_towels_x_2_808644

"MY LITTLE CHRISTMAS ROBIN" PAINTING BY ANNE CHAFFER

2009-01-29T00:29:00.000-08:00

"My Little Christmas Robin" by Anne Chaffer. 20x23cm. Watercolor on watercolor paper.

Photo © Anne Chaffer

The Green Man came across this painting of a Christmas robin, and it struck a chord. Without formal training, the painter has created, nonetheless, a charming, well-balanced composition in a naif style that conveys the true spirit of the holiday bird.

From the post, it is not clear if this is a print for cards or simply the painting itself. However, it would make a delightful small card to sell to send Yuletide greetings.

Anne Chaffer, thank you for your heartfelt and sprightly robin card!

From the Artist:

"We do not have many birds where I live now, but every winter back in the UK we used to have a little robin who fearlessly perched on the bird table, I´m sure it was the same one every year! I miss the little thing, and at the last minute, decided to remember him by incorporating him in this Christmas card with an imaginary background.

If I had more time I would have worked on it by possibly incorporating some suitable festive wording, but I wanted to send it for the gallery so that I could wish all who use the About.com Painting site, a very happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year."

ANOTHER HANDSOME CHRISTMAS ROBIN CARD

2009-01-19T19:01:00.000-08:00

The Green Man has a keen since of design because he is a professional landscape designer. Hence, photographer Richard Winn's handsome shot of a Christmas robin on a snowy conifer branch in November 2008 caught his eye.

Read about Richard Winn's work here, and make notes for next Christmas when you're looking for those Christmas Robin holiday cards to post.

Richard Winn aka AvalonLight, from Bridgewater, England:

"Trained as a Biomedical Scientist in Microbiology, I have lived and worked in a number of places, both in the UK and abroad. I spent three years living in Oslo and Thessaloniki, while performing research funded by the European Community. I was originally interested in photography as a teenager, when I shot mainly using a Zenit 11, although I did borrow my Dad's Praktika while travelling in Nepal in 1994, as the Zenit was far too heavy.

I finally succumbed to the digital age when I bought a Canon 400D in October 2007. I upgraded to a 40D in August 2008, after outgrowing the 400D, mainly due to my wildlife photography interests. I recently acquired a Nikon Film scanner, with the intention of scanning some of my old colour negatives. It produced disappointing results, partly I suspect as a result of poor lens quality, partly my lack of knowledge, but also because of my disdain for filteres as "cheating". I have since learnt the value of filters and how they are mainly for adjusting the scene to how the human eye sees it.

My only regret was the lack of camera access in Norway and Greece. My career came close to overtaking my life up until that point, but Greece did allow my creativity to come to the surface, in the form of some poetry. That probably opened the door for photography to reappear, although it was just buried under the surface, to appear during holidays. I was lucky enough to be a featured artist here at Imagekind in November 2008."

www.imagekind.com/showartwork.aspx?IMID=deb6541a-fda6-4e16-922d-4ae75a4ed848

CHRISTMAS ROBIN BARWARE...WELL, STEIN

2009-01-11T12:33:00.001-08:00

For the holiday season, The Green Man likes spiced rum and eggnog with grated nutmeg on top. He likes a lot of it, in fact. And he likes it out of pricey, festive, crystal barware. So, he's wondering where all the Christmas robin barware and glassware is.

APRIL 17, 2009 UPDATE:

Well, this is getting closer:

"Heft a cold one in this 22 oz. ceramic stein with gold trim!

A great “usable” alternative to the trophy. Make any day Oktoberfest whether with this impressive stein on the shelf or in-hand.

Cheers!

Measures 6.75" tall, 3.75" diameter base, 3" diameter rim

Dishwasher and microwave safe

From the Designer:

"It's a robin red breast, sitting on a snow covered window sill and singing a cheery song. He's clutching bright green holly with red berries. Great Christmas gift for bird lovers and vintage lovers."

shop.cafepress.com/design/21599737

HEIRLOOM CHRISTMAS ROBIN TABLECLOTH & NAPKINS

2009-01-10T13:29:00.000-08:00

CHRISTMAS ROBIN TABLECLOTH & COMPANION NAPKINS(Item #691250)

The Green Man notes that this item is from Cash's of Ireland, a division of Wedgwood/Waterford, a company now undergoing reorganization. Hence, this tablecloth may no longer be available in the future. Of course, another incentive is that it's on sale.

"Charming robin redbreasts perch on the holly that graces the center of this 33" cloth. The edge is happily tartan-trimmed. 100% poly, from Ireland. Comes with a delightful set of six 15" napkins"

www.cashs.com/product/691250

THE AMAZING VITEC CHRISTMAS ROBIN PAINTINGS

2009-01-07T21:31:00.000-08:00

One of The Green Man's Vitec favorites: the 'Renoir Christmas Robin'

Here's a 'Degas Christmas Robin.' The Green Man hopes the mysterious Vitec is a millionaire from his astoundingly-lovely paintings..."

The Green Man knows great art, so when he chanced upon the work of Berkshire, England artist Vitec, he was absolutely dazzled. THIS is superb work, and if the Green Man had tons of cash to spend on art he would buy up every Vitec work he could get his leafy little hands on.

Vitec gives us technically pefect and poetically transcendent works of woodland creatures rendered in the style of French Impressionism at its purist. Dazzling!

The Green Man is attempting to get more information about this artist. He seems somewhat mysterious, but what an absolutely terrific painter. If you come across his work in the Berkshire area, buy all of it immediately!

vitec-painting.blogspot.com

THE WATERFORD CHRISTMAS ROBIN

2009-01-07T20:45:00.000-08:00

Waterford, Ireland

Waterford Wildlife - The Christmas Robin

"Although Robins are not mentioned in the Bible or seen in the Holy Land, they have a strong association with the Christian festival of Christmas. A possible reason for this is that when early festive cards were first designed in Britain, postmen wore bright red coats so their standard nickname became 'redbreast' or robin'. Both of these names are mentioned in 'Framley Personage' by Anthony Trollope published in 1861. Trollope was working in the Post Office as a travelling inspector and is credited with the invention of the pillar-box, the first of which were painted red and still are in Britain. And so an association began – the first festive cards

posted in red post boxes and delivered by 'redbreast' or 'robin' postmen. Despite the fact that robins are here all year long, somehow their reappearance at Christmas in this way seems to give everyone a feeling of pleasure.

The Robin (Erithacus rubecula) is a member of the Thrush family and like all members of this family, it is unable to walk and hops about instead. Robin was originally a Christian name, a pet form of Robert, both coming from France with the Normans. The Anglo-Saxon name is Rudduc from the colour of its breast.

The name in Irish is Spideóg. However it was not until 1549 that the English name 'Robin' was first recorded as a bird name, and gradually over the centuries, this replaced both the common names of Redbreast and Rudduck.

There is much lore about this bird. Generally, it signifies confiding trust and triumph – a New Year spirit who sets out to kill his predecessor – the Wren who hides in a bush. Folklore has many tales of the origin of the red breast. One is that it was singed while taking water to sinners in hell. Another is that when our Lord was on his way to Calvary and burdened by the Cross, a Robin picked a thorn from His crown and that the blood spurted from the wound fell on the bird, dying his breast red.

Another Christian tale is told of the Irish missionary, St. Columba. One day as he was painting a book, a Robin hopped onto the window ledge beside him. Columba asked the Robin to sing him a song and the Robin sang " Holy, Holy, Holy, a wee brown bird am I, But my breast is ruddy, because I saw Christ die".

There are also many curious references of the Robin's loving and compassionate care of the dead. In a poetic version of the fairy story 'Babes in the Wood' is to be found, "No burial this pretty pair of any man receives, till Robin Redbreast painfully did cover them with leaves." and "When they were dead, the Robin so red, brought strawberry leaves and over them spread". An 18th century poem by Michael Drayton has "Covering with moss the dead's unclosed eye, the little redbreast teacheth charity".

In weather lore, a Robin singing in the morning indicates the approach of spring. Should they sing on the topmost branches, it is a sign of a storm approaching. If it sings near the ground, the weather will be wet. However, if the weather is bad and he moves to the highest branches to sing, then good weather is on the way. In 'Anecdotes of the Animal Kingdom' published in 1837, it is forecast – "If a Robin sings in the bush, the weather will be course, but if he sings on the barn, then the weather will be warm". And it does not end there! A Robin singing on the windowsill foretells happiness in love and if a girl sees a Robin before any other bird on St. Valentine's Day, she will marry a sailor. To have a Robin nest in or near your house is a sign of good luck for the occupants. Beware however! Harming the bird in any way is said to bring sickness and misfortune to the perpetrators and their families and animals. The ballad 'Who killed Cock Robin' published in 1744 is probably the best-known bird rhyme.

Its origins are obscure but it concludes with the verse and names the chief suspect – "To all it concerns, This notice apprises, The Sparrow's for trial, At the next assizes." Also, be warned! Both English and Irish tradition has it that if a Robin flies into your house via the back door, then a death might be expected in the family. But a Robin entering the house by any other means portends the birth of a baby!

The Robin has a widespread distribution in Waterford and may be seen throughout the City and County at all times of year."

Courtesy of:

www.waterford-today.ie/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=4904&Itemid=10370&ed=480

EMMA BRIDGEWATER 1/2 PINT CHRISTMAS ROBIN MUG AND COMPANION

2009-01-06T15:52:00.000-08:00

The Green Man especially likes this handsomely-illustrated coffee mug because it has a companion mug for children. Our children have been entrusted with the future of the Christmas robin. And nothing instills a sense of the importance of something as sharing it happily with a parent.

Young children will feel bonded to parents sharing coffee and milk or juice in a Christmas robin mug. These happy memories will stay with our offspring forever.

www.emmabridgewater.co.uk/ProductDetails.aspx?pid=GBRB002&cid=PATBIR&language=en-GB

HAPPY TWELFTH NIGHT FROM THE CHRISTMAS ROBIN SITE

2009-01-05T10:09:00.000-08:00

"Twelfth Night," the Eve of Epiphany, is the 12th night of the 12-day Christmas SEASON, "Twelvetide." Christmas 2008 was the first holiday for The Christmas Robin Site. However, although the Christmas SEASON draws to a close, TCRS will continue throughout 2009 with periodic new entries related to the Christmas Robin. Thank you!

A 2008 CHRISTMAS ROBIN FROM SIMON KING

2009-01-04T10:49:00.001-08:00

For the eleventh day of "Twelvetide" or Christmas, The Green Man is posting this exquisitely well-composed photograph of a Christmas robin from wildlife photographer Simon King:

www.simonkingwildlife.com

A CHRISTMAS ROBIN T-SHIRT

2009-01-03T00:57:00.000-08:00

Wonderful wildlife design with two English Robins perched on a Holly twig. Lovely for Christmas or any time of year. Sure to be a favorite with everyone. Available on t-shirts, gifts and other apparel.

The Green Man likes this great-looking t-shirt because the design is large, tasteful, and colorful, the shirt itself is 100% cotton, and it's available in a great choice of dignified colors.

t-shirts.cafepress.com/item/english-robins-holly-dark-tshirt/86473574

THE CHRISTMAS ROBIN SITE WISHES ALL A HAPPY NEW YEAR 2009

2009-01-01T02:05:00.000-08:00

The Robin Nest Box

£8.50 plus P&P

The Robin Box is suitable for Robins and other such birds that like an open box such as pied wagtails and spotted flycatchers. Robins are approx. 140mm long and weighs an average of 16 to 22 grams.

The adults have the distinct orange face while the youngsters are brown with spots and strips. They live in most areas of Britain from countryside to city centres in Woodlands, copses and gardens. They are very territorial and defend their area all year round. They make a “Tic Tic “ or “Tseep” call.

Breeding season is usually Late March to the end of June and they will have 2 to 3 clutches. The female makes the nest lining it with hair and fine garden material. They will nest in an open fronted box as shown opposite but like it placed so it is partially concealed by ivy or climbers. The female lays 5 to 7 eggs which are white with red spots and incubates them for 14 days. The young are feed by both parents and fledge the nest at 15 days.

You can feed Robins on fat, cheese, sultanas, breadcrumbs, and cake. There favourite are mealworms. Always provide water for drinking and bathing.

The boxes are made out of untreated soft wood with no preservatives on it. The lid is fixed in place as cleaning can be done through the opening at the front.

Boxes should be sited over 2 metres high and out of the reach of cats.

The size of the Robin Nest Box is

400mm high backing plate
170mm depth
200mm width

Interior size 170mm high, 150mm wide, 125mm deep

All sizes are approx. and may be subject to change.

There is an open front for access and cleaning.
If the box is to be stored before use please store outside in a shed or garage not near any heat.

www.theowlbox.co.uk/robin.htm

HAPPY NEW YEAR'S EVE 2009 FROM THE CHRISTMAS ROBIN SITE

2008-12-31T04:14:00.000-08:00

Erithacus rubecula melophilus var. 'sarcologos'

CHRISTMAS ROBIN HEIRLOOM BOOKMARK

2008-12-31T03:48:00.000-08:00

The Green Man jumped when he spotted this kit to make heirloom-quality Christmas robin BOOKMARKS! Just the perfect item (left) to mark your place in a book when reading Christmas stories.

Bookmarks stitched on 15-count Aida fabric. Kit includes Aida band and needle, 6-strand embroidery cotton, full charted instructions, felt or tartan Ribbon for backing and Tassel. Finished project measures 7" x 2".

www.celticstitchery.com/Christmas/Robins.htm

CHRISTMAS ROBIN WESSEX CHRISTMAS MUG

2008-12-30T06:17:00.000-08:00

Mug Dunoon Christmas Robin Richard Partis Bird

This piece is a new bone china Christmas mug from Dunoon China, Staffordshire England in a series of 3 mugs by artist Richard Partis called Season's Greetings sold separately.

This mug is in the Wessex shape, measures 3.5 inches high by 3.25 in diameter and features a red Christmas robin in the snow, a favorite image from English Chistmas cards. The mug is new with original sticker.

A steal at $36.00

www.bobvila.com/SmartBuys/Mug_Dunoon_Christmas_Robin_Richard_Partis_Bird-p1182412.html

CHRISTMAS ROBIN WRAPPING PAPER

2008-12-29T18:38:00.000-08:00

The Green Man says to stock up on this handsome Christmas robin gift wrap now for next Yuletide. Do it today since supplies are limited, and next season you'll be wanting it. In addition, your purchase will help a wonderful pet charity!

www.bluecrossshop.org.uk/acatalog/info_WP_61829.html

TWO CHRISTMAS ROBIN TALES

2008-12-28T18:27:00.000-08:00

"The link between the Robin and the festive season probably comes from the folk tale that tells that when Jesus had been crucified and was dying, the Robin, which at that time was a plain brown in colour, flew to his side and sang into his ear in order to ease his pain. The blood from Jesus's wounds stained the Robin's breast, and thereafter all Robins bore the mark of Christ's blood upon their little breasts."

"Another folk tale suggests he obtained his distinctive colouring by flying into the stable where the baby Jesus lay. To prevent the baby being cold, he flew to the fire, beating his little wings to fan the flames, and in doing so scorched his little breast."

THE MUSICAL CHRISTMAS ROBIN PAGE

2008-12-28T17:57:00.001-08:00

The Green Man believes the Spirit Is Up's Christmas Robin page is one of the best!
www.spiritisup.com/christmasrobinkh.html

A SAINT JOHN'S DAY CHRISTMAS ROBIN

2008-12-28T17:44:00.000-08:00

Photographer Jakeof captured this beautifully-composed shot of a Saint John's Day Christmas robin on December 27th, 2008 in Chichester, England.

A CHRISTMAS ROBIN FINGER PUPPET

2008-12-27T20:47:00.000-08:00

stores.ebay.com.sg/ModestRose

MEET THE MAGICAL WHITE CHRISTMAS ROBIN "SNOWFLAKE"

2008-12-26T15:10:00.000-08:00

Sunday December 21,2008
By Words: Stuart Winter Pictures: Mark Kehoe

A RARE and beautiful snowy white robin has been delighting Christmas revellers with its own winter wonderland performance.

Families have been turning out to watch the white robin – believed to be the only one of its kind in Britain – as it flits among cherry trees and pours out a seasonal song.

Albino robins are almost unheard of in the wild. Their glistening plumage makes them easy targets for predators such as sparrowhawks.

Yet Snowflake the Robin has been merrily bob-bob-bobbing on Hampstead Heath this winter and has become something of a celebrity.

Delighted observers have been calling the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds to report their sightings and also asking for more information about the rare visitor.

Tim Webb of the RSPB in London said: “Robins are quite possibly our most loved native birds. They are usually quite tame and this one has the added ‘ahh’ factor of being almost all white.

“It’s also got a great sense of timing, popping-up just at the right moment to wish us all a happy Christmas.

“So if you happen to be on the Heath and spot it, savour the moment.

“You’d have to be a very lucky person to ever see another live white robin in the wild. This is a unique and magical experience.”

The last known white robin was a bird photographed in Dorset in 2007, although that bird was technically “leucistic” – meaning its feathers were a milky colour rather than white.

Snowflake, however, has a pure white head, back and body because it has a rare condition known as hypomelanism.

Even the Snowflake’s signature red breast has disappeared under a shock of white feathers but that has not stopped the chirpy bird from pouring out its winter song from a cherry tree.

The fact that feisty robins sing throughout the winter to defend their territories is one of the reasons they have become associated with Christmas.

Both male and females have a beautiful jangling seasonal song and during Charles II’s reign one bird regularly entered Canterbury Cathedral to pour out its repertoire, apparently shaming the Puritans who preferred their Christmases to be subdued affairs..."

Read the rest of this amazing story here:

www.express.co.uk/posts/view/76624/Meet-the-magical-white-Christmas-robin-

THE CHRISTMAS ROBIN STOCKING

2008-12-25T12:57:00.000-08:00

CHRISTMAS DAY GREETINGS!

Robin Bird Needlepoint Christmas Stocking

"Deck your fireplace for the holidays with this gorgeous Christmas Stocking. The design features a lovely robin bird in front of a decorated Christmas tree, done in wool needlepoint and backed in a rich velvet. Measuring 17" in length. Christmas Stocking"

A bargain at $25.99

www.aloveofdogs.com/servlet/the-290/Robin-Bird-Needlepoint-Christmas/Detail

THE CHRISTMAS ROBIN SITE WISHES ALL A HAPPY YULETIDE

2008-12-24T04:08:00.001-08:00

www.morganwareen.com

ADORABLE KNIT CHRISTMAS ROBIN AVAILABLE SOON

2008-12-18T20:05:00.000-08:00

The Green Man asks, "How cute is this little robin in his Santa hat?!"

Save this link for instructions

starrysheep.com/crafty/?p=125

Meanwhile, check out more photos here:

www.flickr.com/photos/13770344@N07

THE TIPSY CHRISTMAS ROBIN

2008-12-17T11:21:00.000-08:00

The Green Man came across this charming tale about the Christmas Robin who enjoyed the holiday just a bit too much one Yuletide!

As the Christmas bird par excellence, it seems appropriate to record the Robin which managed to imbibe too much of the Christmas spirit. Some seventy years ago Margaret Holden wrote of the household Robin which, having eaten its share of the plum pudding and brandy sauce, fell off the chair back on which it was resting. Left in a safe place to sleep off the effects, it never touched another drop.

The Green Man likes this story because it proves the Christmas robin is human like the rest of us...

TRADITIONAL GLASS ROBIN ORNAMENT

2008-12-16T10:39:00.000-08:00

(First of all, The Green Man apologizes for the delay in new posts due to an ice storm that swept New York. Things are back to normal!)

Here's a terrific hand-blown traditional Christmas robin glass ornament for your holiday tree!

shopchristmasonline.com/robin-ornament-p-1737.html

THE CHRISTMAS ROBIN POSTER

2008-12-11T10:15:00.000-08:00

www.allposters.com/-sp/Christmas-Robin-and-Friends-Posters_i2829048_.htm

ENGLISH CHRISTMAS ROBIN TEA COSY

2008-12-10T18:58:00.001-08:00

From SUIE ROBERTS:

"The cheery Christmas robin is no stranger to cold bleak winters. He knows how to keep warm and he will keep the teapot warm too. The festive robin novelty Tea Cosy is quick and easy to make and adds Christmas cheer to the kitchen or breakfast table, he also makes for a very unusual gift."

searchwarp.com/swa218390.htm

THE OFFICIAL THE CHRISTMAS ROBIN SITE DINNERWARE

2008-12-07T20:17:00.001-08:00

Let the festive songs of our Robin fill your home with cheer.Made in Ohio by Hartstone Pottery. Microwave, freezer, oven and dishwasher safe. Lead free

www.hartstonepottery.com

CELEBRATING THE CHRISTMAS ROBIN WITH FAMILY

2008-12-07T19:43:00.000-08:00

ROBIN RAVEN tells how: "Family storytelling is one tradition of Christmas that continues on into modern times. From the story that led to "Twas the Night Before Christmas" to the tales told in your home when you were a child, the season is ripe with stories to pick at your leisure. There's also one you probably haven't heard of: the age old Christmas legend of the Christmas Robin. The robin is a traditional symbol of Christmas in England, but his legend goes even deeper than that.

Step1

Learn the full tale of the Christmas Robin. Share this story with your family. On the night of the first noel, a robin bird faced the bitter cold so that the Christ child could rest. The robin flapped his wings really hard while staying very close to the fire in order to keep the fire going so the child could stay warm. In trying to light a dimming fire, the red on the robin's breast was said to be made permanent that night as a symbol of beauty and honor for such a noble deed. Louise Betts Egan wrote about some of this in "A Christmas Stocking."

Step2

Have your child draw pictures of the Christmas Robin. You can hang these on your fridge for a Christmas decorated refrigerator. You can even stash these in with your Christmas cards, alongside a written tale of the legendary bird.

Step3

Talk about the moral of the tale. The story, in order to be fully grasped, should be discussed at length. A child may have trouble comprehending the full kindness of the bird, but, after a discussion, it will make more sense. Compare the robin's actions to things you have done in your own life to help others. Explain how good doing such things felt to you. Bringing this discussion up every Christmas season will help invoke the spirit of Christmas.

Step4

Ask your child what he could do around the season to help others like the robin helped Jesus. Your child's imagination--and generous spirit--will likely kick into high gear. Listen to his ideas. If none of them seem practical, suggest a few of your own. He will pick up on the ideas you have. Some things you could do to celebrate the robin's spirit of kindness is to pick out a toy for a needy child. Almost all malls and area non-profits host trees for children whose parents or caregivers cannot afford presents. You could suggest that your whole family volunteer at a kitchen to feed the homeless and hungry. You could also explain how your child could give an extra portion of his allowance in a tithe or donation to a local organization that stands for a good cause.

Step5

Place a figurine of a robin upon or beside your fireplace. This calls upon the legend itself, and it's a reminder to be thankful of the heat and warmth that your family is blessed with.

Step6

Place robin-themed Christmas ornaments on your tree.

It will make you smile and recall the legend every time you pass by your decorative tree.

www.ehow.com/how_4531463_celebrate-legend-christmas-robin.html

CHRISTMAS ROBIN GREETING CARDS

2008-12-06T20:37:00.000-08:00

The robin looks at the camera quizzically, in this classic Christmas image.

Shot name: Christmas Robin MC
Location: Bolam Lake Country Park
Photographer: Andrew Howe

www.cardsunlimited.com/bulkview.php?id=christmas_robin_mc

CHRISTMAS ROBIN CLIP-ON ORNAMENT

2008-12-06T20:27:00.001-08:00

What an exquisitely lovely Christmas robin for your holiday tree!

Measurments: 5-1/2"

Clip for easily attaching to tree, decor

Handcrafted, hand painted

www.eclecticagifts.com/red-breasted-robin-glass-ornament-p-1100.html?zenid=729b500d324d67f7ce4302fdd1cc7edf

NEW CHRISTMAS ROBIN ORNAMENT

2008-12-05T14:06:00.000-08:00

Robin Red Breast

Inside Art Christmas Ornament Merck Family Old World Christmas 99616

Price: $9.95

www.ecrater.com/product.php?pid=2856621

ROBIN REDBREAST'S CHRISTMAS SONG: A SCOTCH TALE

2008-12-04T21:23:00.000-08:00

A Scotch Folk Tale Retold

"There was once an old gray Cat, who went for a walk one Christmas morning to see what she could see. As she was walking by a small lake, she saw a Robin hopping about on a branch.

"Good morning, Robin Redbreast," she said, "Where are you going on this cold and frosty morning?"

"I'm going to the King," answered the Robin, "to sing him a Christmas Song."

"Oh, but wait before you go," said the Cat. "Hop down to me a minute and I'll show you the beautiful white ring around my neck."

But Robin looked down on Cat and saw an evil look in his eye...

Read the rest of the story here:

SEND A CHRISTMAS ROBIN E-CARD

2008-12-04T09:13:00.000-08:00

www.bbc.co.uk/devon/content/ecards/xmas_robin_ecard.shtml

THE HUMBLE CHRISTMAS ROBIN

2008-12-03T23:14:00.000-08:00

"The humble robin is a traditional Christmas symbol in the UK, the colourful bird often depicted on our festive greetings cards and Christmas gift wrapping. We also use little robin decorations to trim our Christmas trees and our Christmas cakes or chocolate logs. It's hardly surprising that we cherish this pretty, cheerful little bird as part of our Christmas festivities because he is so colourful and most other birds have migrated to warmer climates. And during our long bleak winters it lifts us to hear the chirpy song of the festive robin.

However, there is more to this chirpy fellow then just cute Christmas cards of him posing on snow covered post boxes and nesting in old copper watering cans.

Robins live through out Europe (Except the far North) and Western Siberia. We notice an increased number of robins in the UK during our winter months as robins in colder climates move to warmer wintering gathering grounds during the autumn.

Robins who live in close proximity to people can become rather tame, especially towards avid gardeners. Some cheeky robins have learned to take advantages of unearthed worms caused from gardeners digging and turning the soil.

It has also been discovered that robins can fish. Not for large fish though, the robin itself being only 14 cm and weighing between 14 and 21 grams. Robins can hover and dive for fish in shallow waters.

Male robins are very territorial and sing to proclaim their territory, what sound like a cheerful winter song to us is actually a warning of occupation to other robins in the area. Robins will fight to defend their territory.

Robins mate and nest in late March. The female robin builds a nest from dry dead leaves and moss in crevasses in trees, wall cavities or in under growth.

Because robins don't build traditional nests with twigs and sticks and instead simply line holes and crevasses is why we hear tales of robins nesting in old watering cans and wellington boots.

The female lays between 4 and 6 small white to slightly blue speckled eggs which she incubates for 2 weeks.

At two weeks old the robin chicks can fly. By this time the father robin feeds his offspring for a further 3 week until the chicks become independent at around five weeks old, meanwhile the female rears her second brood.

Chicks are not born with the trademark vibrant red breast feathers. They shed their chick feathers to make way for their splash of red on their breasts.

Not many robin chicks get to show off their new red feathers with pictures poses on top of snow covered post-boxes or pine-trees because more than a half of the chicks die during their first year.

However, robins can live up to the ripe old age of 5 years, which is something to sing about.

So spare a thought for this festive little bird this Christmas time because he works hard for his living. Maybe leave them some tasty Christmas treats on your bird table, some bacon rind and a stuffing ball. And maybe leave out a few old terracotta plant pots for a homeless female robin looking for somewhere to build their nests."

S. Roberts writes for http://www.santaspostbag.co.uk/ for more Christmas Theme articles and ideas visit Santa’s website:

www.santaspostbag.co.uk

CHRISTMAS ROBIN MUGS

2008-12-03T22:31:00.001-08:00

Robin Dinnerware & Accessories

Let the festive songs of our Robin fill your home with cheer.

Made in Ohio by Hartstone Pottery. Microwave, freezer, oven and dishwasher safe. Lead free.

www.hartstonepottery.com/store/shopdisplayproducts.asp?id=51

CHRISTMAS ROBIN TREE ORNAMENT #1

2008-12-03T22:15:00.001-08:00

Bringing a springtime glow to your Christmas festivities, this 5" robin is perched atop a branch filled with holly greens and berries. Crafted from glass and resin and comes ready to hang with gold cord. A Bronner's exclusive!
(Legend of the Robin card included.)
Bronner #1095132.

Robin Christmas Ornament
1095132
$9.99

www.bronners.com/1095132.html

THE LEGEND OF THE CHRISTMAS ROBIN

2008-12-03T22:02:00.000-08:00

While Virgin Mary was lying in straw beside her son in the manger on the chilly night of December when he was born, she was too tired and weak to get up and keep the fire to keep her son warm. She was a stranger in the land and there was no one yet to help her with her miseries. The wind was raw and cold and fire was getting dull, this causing discomfort to the Holy Infant. Thus, Mary asked the oxen in the stable to help her and blow the embers with their breath. But they did not even stir from their place. Then, the poor mother pleaded with the ass to breathe upon the flame to make it brighter and warmer but the silly and lazy animal was so fast asleep that he did not even heard his name.

At last, a brave small Robin who was flying down south with his brothers heard the lady's pleas and saw her and her son in great discomfiture and took pity on them and come through the window to help them. She flapped her wings till the flames rekindled and started burning brighter. Some of the sparks even leapt up and seared the creature's breast but the Robin continued to serve baby Jesus bravely till the stable grew warmer and the Child slept softly. The thankful Lady blessed the Robin for her bravery and kindness and said that from that point of time, every Robin would have a breast of red as a reminder of the great Charity; it had done unselfishly for Baby Jesus.

Courtesy of:
www.worldofchristmas.net/christmas-stories/legend-of-robin.html

WELCOME TO THE CHRISTMAS ROBIN SITE!

2008-12-03T21:05:00.000-08:00

Christmastide 2008

The Christmas Robin Site is a "clearinghouse" of information about the endangered Christmas Robin.

"Robins are one of our favourite images for Christmas. They appeared on Christmas cards when we first started sending them in around 1860. Victorian postmen, who wore red uniforms, were nicknamed "Robins" and the first Christmas cards depicted real Robins delivering cards in the guise of postmen.

But Britain's favourite bird had yuletide connections long before the Victorians commandeered him for Christmas. The red-breasted Robin has been celebrated as a bird of mid-winter cheer for hundreds, and possibly thousands, of years back into Pagan times. Like the holly wreath with its splash of scarlet against dark green foliage, the Robin has provided mankind with colour and a welcome hint of warmth in the icy dark of winter.

Little wonder they are such enduring symbols of Christmas and winter cheer.

With thanks to Birds Brittanica by Mark Cocker and Richard Mabey for being a mine of information about birds in our folklore."

Courtesy of:
www.birdfood.co.uk