If you’ve been bopped on the back of the head by a bird while you’re out for a summer stroll, don’t worry, you’re not in an Alfred Hitchcock movie. You’ve probably just walked “too close” to a red-winged blackbird nest. These birds can be quite aggressive and have no qualms about letting you know when you’re in their territory.
Red-winged Blackbirds: Bold & Territorial
The red-winged blackbird is a passerine bird of the family Icteridae. They are found in most of North America. They spend most of their time in marshes and wet fields. They are bold and not afraid to attack humans and larger birds. Here’s how to identify a red-winged blackbird.
- The males are stocky, broad-shouldered, and have red-patches on the top of their wings.
- Female red-winged blackbirds are stocky as well but are gray-brown in color with white-gray streaks on their bodies.
Why are Red-winged Blackbirds Aggressive?
Red-winged blackbirds are most aggressive during their breeding season, which happens late spring through mid-summer. The male red-winged blackbirds have an aggressive reputation and are known to dive bomb humans and other predators such as crows and hawks. However, female red-winged blackbirds are often aggressive to other females during breeding season.
Male red-winged blackbirds might seem mean, but they are simply trying to protect their young. If you get hit on the head by one of these bold birds, you are most likely close to their nest.
How to Avoid a Red-winged Blackbird “Attack”
Unfortunately, if a red-winged blackbird has its sights set on you, there’s not much that will change its mind. However, there are a few things you can do to lessen the likelihood of a red-winged blackbird bop.
- Find cover. Get away from the area populated with red-winged blackbirds. Get inside if you can.
- Make eye contact. Red-winged blackbirds commonly attack from the rear. It’s not guaranteed, but if you make eye contact there’s a better chance they’ll back off.
- Wear a hat. If you’re out for a walk or a run and you know you’ll be marching through swampy or marshy territory, wear something to protect your head. The red-winged blackbirds will probably still approach you, but with something blocking them, you may not even notice.
And remember, getting “attacked” by a red-winged blackbird may be a little unsettling, however, they are harmless to humans.
Humane & Legal Red-winged Blackbird Removal
If you have aggressive red-winged blackbirds in your yard or on your commercial property, it’s best to get in touch with a professional wildlife control company. Do not attack or harm them. Red-winged blackbirds are protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and intentionally harming these birds could result in a $250,000 fine and two years’ imprisonment on a felony conviction. Let us handle your red-winged blackbird issue. If you need help removing aggressive birds from your space, get in touch with Varment Guard. We’ll remove problem birds and offer preventative measures to keep them from returning.
