The male Yellow-headed Blackbird
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The male Yellow-headed Blackbird defends a small territory of prime nesting reeds. He may attract up to eight females to nest within his area. The male helps feed nestlings, but usually only in the first nest established in his territory. The other females have to feed their young all by themselves.
Grab interest
Typically nests in colonies in marshes, each male selecting territory within colony and defending it against rivals by singing. One male may have as many as 5 mates. Nest: Placed in marsh, firmly lashed to standing vegetation (cattails, bulrushes, reeds) growing in water, usually no more than 3' above water's surface. Nest (built by female) is a bulky, deep cup woven of aquatic plants, lined with dry grass or with fine, dry marsh plants.
The tricolored heron
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Adults feature a mix of smoky blue-gray, lavender, and purple upperparts. A distinct white stripe runs down the front of the long neck, contrasting sharply with a bright white belly and underwings.
Grab interest
During the breeding season, adults grow elegant white and buffy plumes off the back of their heads and lower backs. Their legs turn a vibrant pink, and the bare skin at the base of the bill flashes bright cobalt blue.
Roseate Spoonbill
Spoonbills are large, long-legged wading birds easily recognized by their flat, spoon-shaped bills used to feel for food in shallow water.
During the breeding season, adults grow elegant white and buffy plumes off the back of their heads and lower backs. Their legs turn a vibrant pink, and the bare skin at the base of the bill flashes bright cobalt blue.