Not the snazziest of birds, but finally I have captured a song bird in the classic splayed leg poseš.
This young Red-winged Blackbird was unsure what to do next.
He made some calls to mamma but he got no assistance.
He looked around for awhile before taking the flying plunge and headed back into the underbrush behind him.
Cypress Wetlands, Port Royal, SC
August 2, 2024
On the opposite side of the wildlife drive where the Black-bellied Whistling Ducks were hanging out a few song birds were using the remains of a bridge as a perch.
This Red-winged Blackbird was hard to ignore as he was singing his heart out.
The Merlin app identifies this as a Savannah Sparrow, appropriate as this location is just a few miles from its namesake Savannah, Georgia. All About Birds says they are “common and widespread” and “are one of the most numerous songbirds in North America.” It’s new to me or perhaps I’ve misidentified it in the past.
Savannah National Wildlife Refuge, Laurel Hill Wildlife Drive, Hardeeville, SC
March 13, 2024
Donnelley Wildlife Management Area, SC
February 15, 2024
This branch is part of a dead tree that has fallen over the edge of a pond. Various birds find it a great place to survey the area, including this female Red-winged Blackbird.
In wondered if it was a juvenile as she was having trouble keeping her balance.
And fluffed up a bit like a young bird does.
Then she announced to the world she had a grip and immediately flew off.
When I first spotted this bird he was looking a bit disheveled and I wasn’t sure if it was a female Red-winged Blackbird, which are rather drab, or a juvenile.
He changed positions on this twig several times working to keep his balance. I’m leaning toward juvenile especially after seeing a hint of red on one shoulder.
Finally, he got it all together for a dignified look.
