On this beautiful and less humid morning, I made another summer visit to Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area. Though it is still too early for the shorebird migration to begin, I did encounter a decent variety of birds, including a family of wood ducks and a lone Mississippi kite. But the highlight of my visit was provided by a single bird.
Experienced birders know that red-winged blackbirds are bold and aggressive creatures, inclined to defend their territory from any perceived enemy. This morning, one demonstrated a rather extreme example of that trait, chasing a large black snake across the road. Nipping at its tail as the reptile headed for cover in the marsh, the red-wing was fearless in his attack.
Of course, instinct and intelligence are two different things and a sudden swipe of the snake's tail might have put an end to the hero's life. As it turned out, he was able to return to his flock where the reception was likely just as instinctual (i.e. no medals or parades).
