He's the Boss

  I first noticed him back in the year 2011.  He had come to the Bayou and actually demanded attention which is why I dubbed him "The General". There was no denying that he held command over a league of underlings and that they all submitted to his superiority.  He, after all, was the General.  He did his job well at training those under his command and kept a tight rein his "troops".  I enjoyed watching him go through the daily routine and was always happy to greet him with each rising sun. Each summer it was the same.  Whether he was here during the winter months was questionable but it was hard not to notice him during the summer and fall. The General was boss! 

  The General is a Red-winged Blackbird that calls the marsh and surrounding area his home.  He rules the other blackbirds with an iron hand but seems to be quite fair in doling out his reprimands when needed.  He just takes no flack from any of the other males in the area. They allow him to dine first at the feeders and be first at the water in the birdbath.  All other blackbirds bow to his whim.  He also has a bevy of beauties at his beck and call as all the females adore him.  He has a certain flair about him, that is sure!  His wing bars are brighter and larger than all the other males' bars.  When need be, he can flash those epaulets as a warning of danger.  With that, a whole platoon of underling males come flying in to protect the territory from any marauding critters.  After the General's alerts, I have seen these birds attack snakes, dogs, cats and, yes, even humans.  I, on the other hand, seem to be his friend and can visit without his being alarmed.  He actually came swooping down to be near me today as I was on the pier.  We sat there within arm's reach for a good twenty minutes.  I talked with the bird and he listened.  An occasional trill let me know that he was responding to my efforts to communicate.  He is a smart bird!

  While Red-winged Blackbirds are on the Bayou year round,  I rarely seen the General except during breeding season.  It is then that he makes his presence known as he is protecting his territory.  He and I have a mutual respect for each other.  I am glad he is around as it makes things a bit more interesting.