Red-winged Blackbird

Red-winged Blackbirds are easily recognized by the bright red and yellow shoulder patches on males. They are common around wetlands and fields but will also visit backyard feeders. These birds enjoy seeds and grains and often feed on the ground or at platform feeders.

Red-winged Blackbirds are wetland icons that visit feeders near water features or marshy areas. They eat cracked corn, black oil sunflower, millet, and mixed seeds. Males with their bold red shoulder patches are unmistakable. They travel in mixed flocks with grackles and other blackbirds, especially during fall and winter.

Platform feeders and ground trays near water or in open areas are most effective for Red-winged Blackbirds. They prefer feeding in open habitats with nearby cattails or tall grasses for cover. If your property is near wetlands or a pond, a low platform feeder stocked with corn and sunflower will attract them reliably. They handle hopper feeders well too.

Red-winged Blackbirds are wetland birds that nest in cattails, bulrushes, and tall marsh grasses. If your property includes or borders a pond, marsh, or wet meadow, you already have prime habitat. Leaving cattails and tall grasses standing around water features supports nesting. They'll commute to feeders from wetland nesting areas, so even a feeder a short distance from a pond or creek will attract them. A water feature of any size — even a small garden pond — increases your chances of hosting them.