February on the Cape and Islands is the time for the return of flock after flock of red-winged blackbirds. The blackbirds add a lot of action and noise as they vocalize at any opportunity. This widespread species nests in virtually every wet, brushy or marshy area within its extensive range. This includes most of North America and all over our area.
They are abundant here during the warmer months in quite a diverse selection of habitats ranging from swamps to shrubby grasslands. With such a large range and impressive population this species is one of the best-known land birds on the continent.
A small but increasing number of red-wings remain to spend the winter on the Cape and Islands with several hundred overwintering on Nantucket. They are inconspicuous and reclusive as they try to survive the winter months. They are trying to avoid predators especially Cooper’s Hawks and Merlins which like nothing better than a meal of Red-winged Blackbird. The last 10 days of this month bring about a real and noticeable change in these birds. When, invariably utilizing southwest winds, northbound flocks of male birds arrive; the over winterers immediately come out of their shell, so to speak. They break into song and go from hiding in the bushes to singing from the tops of trees.
Beginning next week, roving flocks of these birds can be expected to arrive on the Cape and Islands every time the wind comes from the west. The birds’ biological clocks are finely honed and the increasing day length compels them northward. Look for these striking birds at bird feeders or around wetlands any day now.
They are obvious, noisy, hungry and affirming of the seasonal nature of life at this latitude. They are proof that spring is coming.
Red-winged blackbirds are dimorphic. This means that the males look quite different from the females. Males are a shiny black with brilliant red and yellow shoulders. Females a drab, streaked brown looking nothing like what people think red-winged blackbirds should look like. Many people confuse them for a sparrow. A close look at both males and females at ones bird feeder will point out the similarities in size, shape, bill structure and design. Plumage characters and differences can be studied and noted at leisure at this season. The birds are hungry and tame at this season.
The reasons for dimorphism are many. Males have to hold and defend territories from other males as well as attract a mate. The bold markings help the males stand out against the background and visually identify occupied areas. Presumably the coloring and markings are attractive to females. Constant and loud song reinforces this visual cue. The camouflaged females plumage helps them remain innocuous while nest building and incubating.
Flocks of these attractive birds are about to descend upon us. They are eagerly anticipated and offer visual and audio proof that the end of winter is coming soon. They feed on a variety of seeds and will come to almost any feeder, especially if a storm hits. If you want to attract flocks they are especially fond of millet and finely cracked corn, spread in a visible location on the ground.
Seeming impossible, in just a little over a month from now the first ospreys will be returning for another breeding season. The days are getting longer fast.
