HAMDEN, Conn. — It’s been nearly three decades since the Fat Robin Wild Bird and Nature Shop set up shop on Whitney Avenue in Hamden.
One thing the family-run shop prides itself on is its uniqueness.
“We don’t fit in -- there’s not really stores like us really anywhere, let alone Connecticut," said Ryan Zipp, the owner of the Fat Robin. "It’s basically a place where people who enjoy birds and nature can come in and we will get them outfitted with the things they need to set up in their yard to go out and enjoy it.”
Zipp, a one-time rock band drummer and the son of the Fat Robin’s founder, added that Connecticut might be a small state, but it is a great place to enjoy the outdoors.
The Fat Robin sells all types of seeds and birdhouses and an array of high-end items like binoculars.
“We carry high-quality stuff,” Zipp said, “And we do as much 'Made in the U.S.' as possible and we do as much 'Made in New England' as possible, we think that is important.”
With the spring season now getting into full swing, Zipp said business at the Fat Robin will increase as well.
“This is our busiest time of the year – between Mother’s Day and bird watching, the spring migration.” Zipp then added, “We have a bit of everything in Connecticut and that includes bird watching, wildlife, and just great outdoor trails… it brings people happiness.”
To learn more about the Fat Robin Wild Bird and Nature Shop, click here.
Jimmy Altman is a reporter at FOX61 News. He can be reached at jaltman@fox61.com. Follow him on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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