05/16/2026
🐦 Fun Fact Friday! The Red-winged Blackbird is one of spring’s boldest voices! 🌾
While a lot of us associate the return of the Robin as one of the of the first signs that warmer days are returning to Alberta, so too is the Red-winged Blackbird. It is the unmistakable “conk-la-REE!” call of the Red-winged Blackbird that echoes through marshes and wetlands. Did you know those beautiful and distinct bright red-and-yellow shoulder patches on the male (called epaulets) aren’t just for show? These striking feathers on the male are actually a warning signal! They are used to defend their territory, puffing them out to look bigger and more intimidating to rivals. They’re fiercely protective and have even been known to swoop at much larger animals, including hikers! 😄Females however, are beautifully camouflaged in streaky brown plumage, helping them blend into cattails while nesting. Next time you’re walking near a pond or marsh in Canmore, listen for their unmistakable song and watch for that brilliant flash of red. Nature is announcing that spring is here! 🌿
📸 On your visit to Canmore this summer, take a walk along the Policeman's Creek boardwalk, within walking distance from The Lodges, and see if you can spot or hear a Red-winged Blackbird.
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