While observing sandhill cranes forage along the marsh, a Red-winged Blackbird took flight from a nearby reed. I don't know, that patch on the wings seems more orange than red to me, what do you think? I guess Red-winged has a better ring to it than Orange-winged . . .

She doesn't have all of the flash and color of many other birds, but when this female blackbird took a perch on this white goosefoot plant facing the morning sun, I couldn't resist a capture. With the sun on her face and striking a pose, I say you look just beautiful!

Someone was none too happy about his photo session, squawking and carrying one, and some mean stares to boot. And then the lady of the reeds shows up with a snack in her bill, and that didn't help any. Finally, he settled down, repositioned himself and gave me his best side for a quick portrait.

A Yellow-headed Blackbird takes off from last year's reed to find a better spot to call out for a mate. You're a beauty so you shouldn't have too difficult of a time. Good luck Yellowhead!

After vacationing in the southwest US or Mexico for the winter, Yellow-headed Blackbirds have returned to their breeding grounds in northern Illinois. It's great to once again see these wonderful birds that have so much character, one of my favorites. Welcome back!

How about having an endangered (in Illinois) yellow-headed blackbird staring right at you? Okay, that will do. Hello Yellow!