Red-winged Blackbirds and European Starlings

Red-winged blackbirds and European starlings are similar in size and are common birds in Denver. They live and breed here year-round and often flock together in large numbers. A female red-winged blackbird can look very much like a European starling because of the brown/black color and the lack of the red and yellow on its wings. Starlings have shorter tails and slender, longer beaks. The female blackbird has a white eyebrow which the starling lacks.

Left-Red-winged blackbird: Length: 6.7–9.1 inches; Weight: 1.1–2.7 ounces; Wingspan: 12.2–15.8 inches. Right-European starling: Length: 7.9–9.1 inches; Weight: 2.1–3.4 ounces; Wingspan: 12.2–15.8 inches.

Bird Walks May 3 and June 7, 7:30am & 8am. Walks are free but you must RSVP at www.blufflake.org/birdwatching. All are welcome. Bring your own binoculars, or borrow a pair from your guide. 11255 MLK Jr. Blvd. Search www.FrontPorchNE.com for “Bird Sightings” to see all the past bird stories and photos from George Ho.