Redwing blackbirds are icons of marshes and wetlands all across North America. Male birds display vivid red shoulder patches which they flare and flutter in an effort to attract the attention of a female. Perched on the highest tree branch near the marsh, the male bird does his best song and dance. This is the beginning of the nesting season for redwings in the marshes of Armand Bayou. That courtship behavior is on display this week. After mating, females weave an incredibly intricate nest by pulling the tops of marsh grass together. ABNC has restored over 26 acres of tidal marsh habitat since 1995. Redwing blackbirds have taken notice.

~ Mark Kramer