I don’t remember exactly when I learned to identify the American robin.

I’m thinking it was probably about the same time I learned the northern cardinal (aka “redbird”) and the blue jay, but before the common nighthawk, which I clearly remember my dad pointing out one summer evening in 1969 as they soared above the playground at Longfellow School in Wheaton.

I’d imagine other folks have had similar experiences. Well, at least as far as robins, cardinals and the like are concerned. Because these birds are abundant in our area, we – even those of us who are not avid birders – become familiar with them early in life.