Red-winged Blackbirds are Nesting!

Monday, June 5, 2023

Red-Winged Blackbirds are in the midst of their nesting season and males will aggressively defend their territories!

Keep an eye out for these feisty birds in our parks.

Males arrive in late winter/early spring, before the females, to set up, and defend, their territories.
- They like wetland areas but can be found in drier habitats with grass-like plants, including the front of the nature center.
Females are brown and aren't noticed as often but sometimes fly out to defend their nest as well.
- They weave intricate cup-shaped nest out of plant material.
- The nests are usually close to water or the ground but hidden in dense vegetation ,like a bush.
- Although the males seek out high perches in trees, the birds don't usually nest in trees.
Males make it a point to be seen and heard!
- They find the highest point around to perch, then raise their red and yellow shoulder patches and belt out their signature 'conk-cha-ree" song.
- A male Red-winged blackbird is on constant duty, guarding 5 to 15 females, and their nests, according to the BioKIDS website.
- They may fly towards us, flutter above our heads and even dive bomb anyone that gets too close.
- If you find yourself in this situation, just walk away from the area. (You can also way your hands above your head tp discourage them).
A Red-winged Blackbird family is currently nesting in a bush in front of the nature center as well as in a bush by the parking lot.
- Signs have been posted to warn visitors heading towards the nature center and playground.
- To get to the playground, feel free to bypass the main path in front of the nature center, by taking the sidewalk near the street which intersects with a paved trail that leads back to the playground.
As a migratory species, Red-winged Blackbirds, and their nests, are protected by law, so please give these native birds their space.