red winged blackbird

1. Bird Name
The bird of focus today is the Red-Winged Blackbird. Scientifically, it is known as Agelaius phoeniceus.

2. Appearance
The Red-Winged Blackbird exhibits striking dimorphism between males and females. The males, as the name suggests, are almost entirely black, except for a strikingly bright patch, or “epaulet,” on each wing that can appear red, orange, or yellow depending on the light. The females, on the other hand, are a less conspicuous brown color, streaked with darker bands, making them bear a close resemblance to large sparrows. Both sexes have sharp and pointed beaks, suitable for their diet. The eyes are a bright yellow in both sexes.

3. Size
This blackbird stands at an average length of 7–9 inches (17- 22 cm) and has a wingspan of 12–16 inches (31-41 cm). Their weight ranges between 1.1–2.7 ounces (32–77g), marking them as relatively small birds.

4. Habitat & Distribution
The Red-Winged Blackbird is mostly found across North America, from Alaska to the Yucatan peninsula. During winter, many travel down to Central America. The bird prefers a wetland habitat but can also thrive in dry upland areas, making it a typical sight in the marshes, along watercourses, on the shores of ponds and lakes, and in drier grasslands.

5. Interesting Facts
Interestingly, the Red-Winged Blackbird is a highly polygynous species, with males often having numerous mates within their territory. Their vivid red shoulder patches act as a signal indicating their status to other males. The bird also displays highly defensive behavior, diving and swooping at people and larger birds to keep them away from their nests.

6. Diet
In terms of diet, this bird primarily consumes insects, seeds, and grains. However, they are also known to feed on small mammals and small birds given the opportunity.

7. Behavior & Sounds
Red-Winged Blackbirds nest in colonies, and their nests are often built quite low to the ground or water level. In terms of sounds, males have a distinctive song used to declare their territory, described as an ‘o-ka-leeee’ note. Females, on the other hand, make interesting chit-chat noises.

8. Conservation Status
According to the IUCN Red List, the Red-Winged Blackbird is categorized as of Least Concern due to its vast range and its large, stable population.

9. Lifespan
Red-Winged Blackbirds have a relatively short lifespan. In the wild, their life expectancy is about two years, but they can live up to 15 years in captivity.

10. Additional Notes
Red-Winged Blackbirds are known for their role in controlling the insect population, especially in wetland environments. While they may be perceived as a nuisance to farmers due to their diet of grains, they are largely beneficial in balance keeping pests in check.

In some native American cultures, the song of the Red-Winged Blackbird is seen as a symbol of change and transformation. The bird’s striking red shoulder patch contrasts starkly with the black feathering of the body, symbolizing the co-existence of good and challenging phases of life. They are also considered smart and adaptive, able to change locations based on season and available resources.