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The bird of Christmas! Maltese nature photographer captures stunning robins
The robin was one of the first ever birds to be protected in the Maltese Islands

Francesca Vella

As colder seasons set in across Europe, birds like the European robin migrate to warmer regions such as the Maltese Islands, typically returning north around March.

The talented wildlife photographer Benny Scerri captured stunning images of some of the season’s arrivals, giving viewers a rare, up-close look at the beautiful, red-breasted robins – an opportunity many rarely experience in real life.

In addition to his photographs, Scerri filmed a delightful video of the robins taking a refreshing bath in a puddle, likely cooling off in Malta’s unseasonably warm weather. Despite their small size – typically weighing just 16 to 22 grams – these birds are easily recognized by their iconic red chests, often associated with the Christmas season due to their winter migrations.

The robin has held protected status in Malta since 1911, making it one of the earliest bird species to receive legal protection on the islands.

Have you spotted any robins recently?

26th October 2025


Francesca Vella
Written by
Francesca Vella
Francesca has always felt most at home in a cinema or theatre, particularly if musicals are involved. She loves to read, write, and share about her experiences of both the fictional and the real world.

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