Spring on the Doorstep

Spring is a time of return to wetlands. Large mixed flocks follow the early returning waterfowl. Many individuals are setting up territory, while others are feeding insatiably in anticipation of the stressful breeding season. Red-winged Blackbirds are bearing claim to portions of the marsh from atop sumac and immature walnut. Posting and displaying whilst calling out to each other in hopes of driving off a rival or attract a mate. Field Sparrows and American Robins work busily in the saturated, insect rich, tampered downed material. While most individuals feed, a few keep their heads up or move to higher ground to look for predators. This act of mutualism between ground species must have frustrated the overhead Red-tailed Hawk.
Fresh plumages highlight the attributes and characteristics that species employ, and why. Field sparrows are virtually impossible to spot in early spring grasses. This allows them to feed with little concern for predation before vegetative cover returns to the wetland. Red-winged Blackbirds use their plumage and feather shape to intimidate both rivals and perceived threats (like a birder getting a bit too close). The interesting full body display of Red-wings and other black birds is effective in impressing females and portraying the individual as too much to handle for predators. The stark difference in predator defense in these species highlights the broad uses and success of distinct plumages.
Initially when calling out most birds retreat to cover. Blackbirds became extremely territorial towards me as I continued with variable tones and timing. After about a minute of on and off "spishing" Field Sparrows returned to their normal feeding activities. A curious male Northern Cardinal flew across the farm field from a forest edge to see who was calling. He perched on a tree where a few skeptical Robins looked on me. Eventually the nerves subsided and they returned to worming. Unfortunately I was forced to stop my vocalization once realizing I was agitating the courting Canada Gooses. The mallard seemed less phased, continuing to dabble, but I restrained myself out of respect for the couple.

Julkaistu maaliskuu 22, 2021 06:59 IP. käyttäjältä