Backyard and Beyond

Starting out from Brooklyn, an amateur naturalist explores our world.

As John Burroughs said, “The place to observe nature is where you are.”

Red, White, and Black

The edges of the Grand River in Grand Rapids were dominated by Red-winged Blackbirds. And it was fledgling season.

Who’s the boss? These bruisers have drawn blood from a friend, but I’ve found Northern Mockingbirds and, especially, Arctic Terns to be more in your face when it comes to protecting their own.

2 responses to “Red, White, and Black”

  1. charlesmcalexander28

    I’ve seen Red-winged Blackbirds chase Red-tailed Hawks and all manner of passerines. I see them as quite protective of turf and kin.

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