Large Blackbird Flock Roosting in Bamboo Stand

[centrarchid]

I have a large mixed flock of blackbirds roosting in my bamboo patch. Conservatively a couple thousand birds. I think a Great-horned Owl is hunting the birds in the bamboo, yet the flock does not leave. The commotion is keeping my dogs up much of the night.

 

[Matejka]

Blackbirds or grackles? We have grackles. Nothing scares em-nothing

 

[centrarchid]

Red-winged Blackbirds, Common Grackles (not many), Brown-headed Cowbirds, and Brewers Blackbirds. Majority are the Red-winged and Brown-headed.

 

[rayrose]

They're a good source of Avian Flu.

 

[centrarchid]

They're a good source of Avian Flu.

Yes.

 

[centrarchid]

Flock was several times larger last night, at least 10,000 birds. Difference appeared made up by starlings, a lot of starlings. This will end soon as bamboo drops its winter leaves.