Red-winged Blackbird

(Agelaius phoeniceus)

Where: Richmond, VA • Glidewell Rd.

Notes: Around this time each winter, Red-winged Blackbirds visit my backyard to feed on the seeds that drop from the birdfeeders. Sometimes they are part of a larger flock of mixed blackbirds or occasionally there is just one or two individuals. Having seen this male at the feeder a few days before, I was hopeful to photograph it at the birdbath in order to improve on some photos from a couple of years back. Very cold temperatures that week, had kept the snow that fell a couple of days before, white and fluffy. The first chance for a photo came, but was foiled when several Common Grackles cluttered the view. Finally, this male Blackbird came to the water alone and I was all set up to capture a few pictures. I was pleasantly surprised at what a good background and setting this snowy scene made when I saw these images for the first time. This made me realize what a good opportunity it was to try and capture a few other species in the snowy setting, while it lasted.

	THE BIRD SPA The Birdbath Alternative • DIY Installation Instructions and Parts List Birds, like all other animals, prefer habitats that meet all their basic survival needs: food, shelter and WATER! They depend on water to condition their feathers for flight, to help maintain their body temperature, for hydration, and for hygiene. A landscape with a consistent, clean running water source will attract both a greater number of species and a higher count of birds. This especially applies to the many migratory and insect-eating species too. The Bird Spa is a low maintenance water feature, designed specifically for birds. Over seventy-five plus species attracted at a single location in central Virginia. AVAILABLE ONLINE AND AT SCHEDULED EVENTS • SEE: TESTIMONIES. • MORE INFO: THE BIRD SPA
		THE BIRD SPA BOOKLET Instructions and Parts List $15.00