Red-winged blackbirds aren't attacking you. They're just protecting their nesting area
Around this time of year, male red-winged blackbirds are at the peak of their beauty - and their aggressiveness.
Just ask anyone who's been divebombed by a protective feathered father.
Males fluff their feathers and lift their wings to show off their vibrant, namesake red plumage when guarding their nests and chasing away any other animals - including humans - that get too close.
Until their watch has ended, the best thing to do is give the birds some space, says Stephanie Beilke of the Audubon Great Lakes.
"Once you are out of the zone they are protecting, they'll leave you alone," said Beilke, who recommends staying at least 15 feet away.
Buffalo Grove resident Stacy Pestine Misenko learned that the hard way years ago. Back when she was in the sixth grade, she was attacked twice in the same day by males protecting their nests.
"I fell off my bike and my little pink purse got stuck in the wheel," Misenko said. "I refused to be outside alone for years!"
Misenko said she now knows to be on high alert when near marshes and trees.
Beilke said she frequently has run-ins with the aggressive males. A common joke in the bird conservation community is the best way to deal with swooping birds is to wear a hat or even a helmet, she added.
But, she said, the birds pose little physical danger.
"Sometimes they get close enough that you might feel their feet graze your head, but I haven't heard of anyone being injured," Beilke said. "I've never heard of a red-winged blackbird drawing blood."
Red-winged blackbirds are prevalent all over the suburbs and commonly nest in bushes or trees close to water or in dense grass fields.
The mothers build the nests and usually lay between three to four eggs in a season. While the males keep watch, the females keep the eggs warm for the 10 to 12 days before they hatch. The chicks are able to leave the nest after about 11 to 14 days.
Experts say the birds calm down soon after their chicks leave the nests, usually by July.