Redwinged Blackbird male in flight (Trek nature photo)
Redwing Pond was named for its redwinged blackbirds, which loved the pondshore’s cattails.
Dr. James J. S. Johnson
Can the rush grow up without mire? can the flag grow without water? (Job 8:11)
Wetlands are defined by their mix of hydrophilic plants (such as “rush” and “flags” and cattails), wetland hydrology, and hydric soils. And redwinged blackbirds love cattails.

Redwinged Blackbird male atop cattail (Evergreen State College photo)
Those cattails look like corny dogs on stalks!
I know many consider them a nuisance, but Red-winged Blackbirds are some of my favorites. Bold personalities and flashy shoulders! I love photographing them and listening to them calling from the reeds.
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By the way, Merry Christmas, Lee!
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“Corny dogs”? Ok, I can handle that. :) Thanks for posting.
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neat stuff!
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