After my long and photo heavy Tundra Swan post yesterday I am keeping my post today simple. I’m sharing a single photo of a singing Red-winged Blackbird male. I photographed him two days ago next to the shore of the Bear River.

Singing male Red-winged Blackbird on the bank of the Bear River, Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge, Box Elder County, UtahSinging male Red-winged Blackbird on the bank of the Bear River – Nikon D500, f7.1, 1/2500, ISO 640, +0.7 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light

The Red-winged Blackbird’s song caught my attention as I was driving away from the auto tour route. After I located the male blackbird visually I slowed down and stopped where I had the best light angle to photograph him.

This male Red-winged Blackbird moved from this perch to some grasses along the Bear River and ate some of the grass seeds while I observed him. He stopped singing to focus on food.

Earlier in the morning I saw several flocks of blackbirds on the wing streaming towards the north. At this time of the year seeing the blackbirds heading north gives me hope that spring will arrive soon. While I obviously enjoy the marshes and wetlands of Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge in the winter, I am ready for warmer weather. Before long the ice on the marshes will melt and more open water will be available for the birds. I can barely wait. It feels like this winter has lasted overly long.

Here in northern Utah we have gotten ample snowfall this winter and that should be good for the refuge and the Great Salt Lake. It should also benefit the birds, including these blackbirds, that breed and nest in the marshes and wetlands. Very soon the marshes and wetlands will be filled with birdsong too. Of course, I am more than excited for that.

Life is good.

Mia

Click here to see more of my Red-winged Blackbird photos plus facts and information about this species.