Red-winged Blackbird at Assateague Island National Seashore
One of Assateague's most recognizable and vocal marsh inhabitants
The Red-winged Blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus) stands as one of Assateague Island's most recognizable and vocal marsh inhabitants. These striking birds are year-round residents of the island's diverse wetland ecosystems, from the salt marshes facing the mainland to the freshwater impoundments throughout the national seashore. Known for their distinctive territorial calls and the males' brilliant red and yellow shoulder patches, Red-winged Blackbirds play a vital role in Assateague's coastal ecosystem while providing visitors with excellent birdwatching opportunities.
Identifying Red-winged Blackbirds
Male Red-winged Blackbirds
Male Red-winged Blackbirds are unmistakable with their glossy jet-black plumage and distinctive red shoulder patches bordered by bright yellow. These shoulder badges, called epaulettes, can be displayed prominently when the bird is asserting territory or hidden when the bird feels threatened. Males measure approximately 8.5-11 inches in length with a wingspan of 12-16 inches.
Female Red-winged Blackbirds
Female Red-winged Blackbirds present a completely different appearance, featuring heavily streaked brown plumage that provides excellent camouflage among marsh vegetation. Often mistaken for large sparrows, females are noticeably smaller than males and lack the distinctive shoulder patches. Their streaky brown coloration helps them blend seamlessly into cattail marshes and reed beds.
Juvenile birds resemble females but may show some rufous coloring on their wing coverts. Young males gradually acquire their glossy black plumage and bright epaulettes through their first winter and spring.
Where to Find Red-winged Blackbirds on Assateague
Red-winged Blackbirds thrive in Assateague Island's diverse wetland habitats, making them one of the most commonly observed bird species throughout the national seashore. Their preferred habitats include:
Salt Marshes
Extensive systems on both bayside and seaside providing ideal nesting and foraging habitat.
Freshwater Impoundments
Managed freshwater pools attracting large populations, especially during breeding season.
Cattail Marshes
Dense cattail stands offering quintessential habitat with nesting sites and predator protection.
Meadows and Fields
Open grasslands serving as important foraging grounds, especially during winter months.
Red-winged Blackbird Behavior at Assateague
Territorial Behavior
Male Red-winged Blackbirds are highly territorial, especially during breeding season from March through August. They establish territories that may include multiple female nesting sites and defend these areas aggressively against intruders. Males perch prominently on cattail stalks, fence posts, or shrubs while displaying their bright epaulettes and calling loudly.
Breeding and Nesting
Red-winged Blackbirds are polygynous, with successful males mating with multiple females within their territories. Females construct cup-shaped nests woven between cattail stalks or other marsh vegetation, typically 2-8 feet above water level. The female alone incubates 3-4 pale blue eggs marked with dark scrawls for approximately 11-13 days.
Feeding Habits
During breeding season, Red-winged Blackbirds primarily consume insects, spiders, and other invertebrates, making them valuable for controlling pest populations. Outside of breeding season, their diet shifts to seeds from marsh grasses, cattails, and agricultural grains. At Assateague, they commonly feed on saltmarsh cordgrass seeds and other native plant material.
Social Behavior
Outside of breeding season, Red-winged Blackbirds often form large mixed flocks with other blackbird species, particularly during migration periods. These flocks can number in the thousands and create spectacular displays as they move across the island's landscapes.
Where and When to Observe Red-winged Blackbirds
Prime Viewing Locations
Wildlife Loop Road
3.2-mile road with excellent access to multiple marsh habitats where Red-winged Blackbirds are commonly seen year-round.
Life of the Marsh Trail
Accessible boardwalk trail offering close views of nesting behavior and territorial displays.
Lighthouse Road
Ditches and marshes host active populations, particularly near Tom's Cove area.
Beach Access Areas
Marshy areas near beach access points provide excellent viewing, especially during dawn and dusk.
Optimal Viewing Times
Dawn and Dusk
Most active during first and last hours of daylight when territorial behaviors are pronounced.
Breeding Season
March-August offers best opportunities for territorial displays and nesting activities.
Spring Migration
March-April when large flocks move through the area.
Fall Gathering
September-October when post-breeding flocks congregate for winter preparation.
The Red-winged Blackbird's Role in Assateague's Ecosystem
Red-winged Blackbirds serve multiple important ecological functions within Assateague Island's coastal ecosystem. As insectivores during breeding season, they help control mosquito, midge, and other invertebrate populations that might otherwise become problematic. Their seed consumption and dispersal activities contribute to plant community dynamics throughout the island's wetlands.
The species faces few significant conservation threats and maintains stable populations throughout their range. At Assateague, habitat management practices that maintain diverse wetland communities directly benefit Red-winged Blackbird populations. The National Park Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service coordinate management efforts to ensure continued habitat quality for this and other marsh-dependent species.
Tips for Observing and Photographing Red-winged Blackbirds
Equipment
Binoculars: 8x42 or 10x42 provide excellent views for general observation.
Photography: Telephoto lens (300mm or longer) for detailed shots without disturbing birds.
Behavioral Cues
Listen for distinctive "conk-a-ree" call to locate active territories.
Watch for males perched prominently with epaulettes displayed for photo opportunities.
Best Practices
Maintain respectful distances, especially during nesting season.
Calm, clear mornings provide best lighting and bird activity.
Visiting Assateague Island to See Red-winged Blackbirds
Assateague Island National Seashore
Address: 7206 National Seashore Lane, Berlin, MD 21811
Phone: (410) 641-1441
Website: nps.gov/asis
Entrance fees apply. Annual passes and America the Beautiful passes accepted.
Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
Address: 8231 Beach Road, Chincoteague Island, VA 23336
Phone: (757) 336-6122
Hours vary seasonally. Visitor centers provide current bird sighting information, trail maps, and seasonal wildlife activity updates.
Conclusion
Red-winged Blackbirds represent one of Assateague Island's most accessible and rewarding birdwatching opportunities. Their year-round presence, distinctive appearance, and interesting behaviors make them perfect subjects for both novice and experienced birders. Whether you're exploring the Wildlife Loop Road, walking the Life of the Marsh Trail, or simply enjoying the sounds of the marsh, Red-winged Blackbirds will likely be among your most memorable Assateague wildlife encounters.
The continued abundance of Red-winged Blackbirds at Assateague Island demonstrates the success of habitat conservation efforts and the resilience of species well-adapted to coastal marsh environments. Their presence serves as both an indicator of ecosystem health and a reminder of the rich biodiversity that makes Assateague Island a premier destination for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers from around the world.