Redwinged Blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus)
Male is black, with red shoulder patches Female is a brown, uninteresting bird
The male Redwing is familiar to everyone. His beautiful black plumage with red shoulder bars allows a rapid identification. He is usually seen flitting about over a marsh attempting to attract the attention of some admiring female. The nest is built in a shrub on the marsh in late May or June. Ordinarily it is well concealed, and often the only indication of its existence is the loud scolding of the anxious parents when intruders approach.
Black Duck (Anas rubripes)
In flight: A dark duck with silvery underwings On water: Light brown with a yellow bill Bright red feet
This heavily hunted waterfowl continues to breed even in well-populated areas. Its nest is found here on the edges of the many fresh-water pools that dot the Neck in association with the swamps. About nine white or buff-colored eggs are produced in May. After nesting, these ducks may still be seen feeding on submerged plants. They obtain their meal in a crazy “dabbling” fashion, standing on their heads so that only the tail protrudes above the surface.
Black-crowned Night Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax)
White breast, black on back and on crown of head About Herring Gull size Long, wading legs