Birds
Red-winged Blackbird
Agelaius phoeniceus
One of the most recognizable birds in North America. Males are jet black with striking red and yellow shoulder patches they flash to defend territory.
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Field Note
A male Red-winged Blackbird may have up to 15 females nesting in his territory — and he works hard to defend all of them!
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Where to Spot It at ABNC
Common near the pond and marshy areas at ABNC. Males perch prominently on cattails or fence posts and sing loudly.
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Habitat
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Why It Matters
An important part of wetland ecosystems — they eat insects, seeds, and grain, and their nests provide habitat structure in marshes.
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Good to Know
The male is all black with super bright red and yellow patches on his shoulders. He puffs them up to show off and scare other birds away!