The Red-winged Blackbird is a common bird found throughout the wetlands of North and Central America. It is an omnivore, feeding on everything from seeds, to insects, to fruit. In addition, many animals prey on red-winged blackbirds. Owls, hawks, raccoons, foxes, snakes, and other birds all enjoy these blackbirds as a meal. Red-winged blackbirds also travel in loose colonies and inhabit territories with tall reeds and grasses, in which they build their nests. Male blackbirds are polygynous, defending up to 10 females. Not all of these females, however, have mated with this male. Many females lay clutches of mixed paternity.
Photo taken by Jason
Other fun facts:
- Red-winged blackbirds will increase their feeding to match the other blackbirds around them, even if they are already well fed
- Red-winged blackbirds learn by watching other blackbirds. This is how they know which new foods to eat.
- Red-winged blackbirds access the underside of logs by wedging their beak under the log and opening it. This foraging technique is called "gaping."
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