Nature Done Wright

A reader from Ringwood writes:

I have lived in my home for 58 years and enjoy all the wildlife.   I've seen many different birds.

There is a robin that has been coming every year .  He comes to use my bird bath.  He had a mate but now he comes alone.  I assume she died.  Do robins have only one mate like swans?   

Another thing that I'd like to know is the sparrows which live in the ivy growing on my chimney have attacked one of   their own.  There are usually  5 or 6 birds attacking one bird.  Is this something that happens often and why does it happen?   

I responded to her but would love to hear what you think.