Habitat: Edges of ponds, wetlands, cattail marshes

• One of the earliest migrants to return to Michigan.
• Males are easily recognized by their red shoulders, which are most conspicuous in spring. Females and young are brownish in coloring with a barred pattern.
• During migration Red-wing Blackbirds travel and roost in large flocks. They eat insects, small fruits, seeds, grain, and small aquatic life.