ExploreBirds

Red-winged Blackbird

Agelaius phoeniceus

The Red-winged Blackbird is a cheerful bird with shiny black feathers and bright red shoulder patches. They love to sing and can often be found near wetlands and ponds.

Habitat: Wetlands and marshes

Appearance

The Red-winged Blackbird male is glossy black with striking bright red shoulder patches, bordered in yellow. Females are streaky brown with lighter underparts and a faint reddish hue on their shoulders, appearing much duller than males.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderPasseriformesFamilyIcteridaeGenusAgelaius
Red-winged Blackbird
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Red-winged Blackbird

Category

Birds

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

460

Interesting facts

A single male Red-winged Blackbird can have up to 15 female mates in one breeding season!

Baby blackbirds, called fledglings, leave their nests just 10-14 days after hatching.

During winter, Red-winged Blackbirds gather in enormous flocks, sometimes thousands strong!

These birds weave their cup-shaped nests into cattails, often directly over shallow water for safety.

Special abilities

Ability

Territory Protector

Red-winged Blackbirds can fiercely defend their nests from much larger threats, because of their bravery, helping protect their young.

Ability

Acrobatic Forager

Red-winged Blackbirds can snatch insects mid-air and pluck seeds from tall grasses, showcasing agile flight for diverse food.

Ability

Vocal Dominator

Red-winged Blackbirds have a loud, distinctive 'conk-la-ree!' song that helps them declare territory and attract mates.

Measurements & details

Length
17-23 cm
Wingspan
30-37 cm
Weight
0.032-0.077 kg
Lifespan
2-6 years
Top Speed
45 km/h
Clutch Size
2-4
Incubation
11-13 days
Migration Distance
1000 km

Diet & Feeding

These omnivores enjoy a varied diet of insects, spiders, seeds, and grains.

Primary Foods

  • Insects
  • Spiders
  • Seeds
  • Grains
  • Berries

Foraging Method

  • Foraging

Ecological connections

Traits

Also known as

Red-winged Blackbird (Eastern)

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Red-winged Blackbirds are generally safe to watch from a distance. Always be kind to animals and respect their space.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to identify Red-winged Blackbird?

The easiest way to identify Red-winged Blackbird is to use the Snappit nature identifier app.

How long is Red-winged Blackbird?

17-23 cm

What is Red-winged Blackbird's wingspan?

30-37 cm

How much does Red-winged Blackbird weigh?

0.032-0.077 kg

How long does Red-winged Blackbird live?

2-6 years

How fast can Red-winged Blackbird move?

45 km/h

What does Red-winged Blackbird eat?

These omnivores enjoy a varied diet of insects, spiders, seeds, and grains.

Where is Red-winged Blackbird usually found?

Wetlands and marshes

Snap Map

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Where to spot

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