Robins have a relatively short lifespan on average, primarily due to high mortality in their first year of life. Most robins die within their first year, with an average life expectancy of about 1 to 1.1 years. However, those that survive this critical first year tend to live longer, usually around 5 to 6 years in the wild
. The longest recorded lifespan for a wild banded robin is nearly 14 years (13 years and 11 months), and in captivity, robins have been known to live over 17 years
. Despite this potential for longevity, robins rarely live beyond two years in the wild, as many succumb to predation, harsh weather, and territorial conflicts
. In summary:
- Average lifespan: about 1 year due to high first-year mortality
- Typical lifespan if surviving first year: 5 to 6 years
- Maximum recorded wild lifespan: nearly 14 years
- Captive lifespan: over 17 years
This pattern reflects the robin's life strategy of rapid reproduction and high juvenile mortality, with survival improving significantly after the first year
