Bird Science - Red-winged blackbird
Red-winged Blackbird: A Common North American Species
The Red-winged Blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus) is a widespread passerine bird found across North America and parts of Central America. It is known for its distinctive red and yellow shoulder patches, which are particularly visible in males. This species is sexually dimorphic, with males being black with red and yellow markings, while females are brownish and more subdued in color.
Distribution and Habitat
Red-winged Blackbirds breed from Alaska and Newfoundland south to Florida, Mexico, and Central America. They inhabit a variety of environments, including wetlands, marshes, and open grasslands. These birds are highly adaptable and can also be found in agricultural fields and suburban areas. Northern populations are migratory, moving to the southern United States and Mexico during winter, while those in the south are year-round residents.
Physical Characteristics
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Male: Black plumage with bright red shoulder patches bordered by yellow.
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Female: Brownish with streaked plumage, smaller than males.
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Size: Males are 8.7–9.4 inches long, while females are 6.7–7.1 inches long.
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Weight: Males weigh around 2.3 ounces, females around 1.4 ounces.
Behavior
Red-winged Blackbirds are highly territorial, especially during the breeding season. Males are known for their aggressive defense of nesting sites, often attacking larger birds and even humans who come too close. They are also polygynous, with one male defending multiple females. These birds are omnivorous, feeding on seeds, insects, and small invertebrates.
Reproduction
Red-winged Blackbirds breed in loose colonies, with nests built in cattails, rushes, or small bushes. Females construct the nests, which are made of grasses and lined with mud. They lay 3–4 eggs per clutch, which are incubated for 11–12 days. The young fledge in about 11–14 days.
Conservation Status
The Red-winged Blackbird is classified as a species of Least Concern by the IUCN. It is one of the most abundant birds in North America, with populations estimated in the hundreds of millions. However, habitat loss and urbanization pose potential threats to their long-term survival.
Economic Impact
While Red-winged Blackbirds play a role in controlling insect populations, they can also cause significant damage to agricultural crops, particularly corn and rice. Farmers have used various methods to deter them, including chemical repellents and mechanical devices.
*The above data source is from wikipedia.