While we can expect setbacks in the time ahead, spring continues to roll along. You have probably noticed blackbirds which are now easy to find. Male Red-winged Blackbirds have set up territory in rural and some urban areas – they aren’t just marsh birds. The sparrow-like females will be along a little later. Grackles, those large, long-tailed blackbirds with feathers that change colour in the sun are all too common. They are aggressive and can take over feeders, challenging our resident birds and quickly cleaning out your seed supply.

Starlings, while not true blackbirds, tend to be lumped into the mix and can appear in our yard in flocks in early spring. Most feed on the ground but they will also take advantage of leftover fruit on crabapple and berry trees. They love suet and can devour a cake in no time so I usually take mine down once they arrive. While all of these birds present challenges, they are a sign that our season is moving in the right direction.

Happy Spring Birding!

Brian Morin

Publisher of Ontario Birding News