Songs
Both males and females sing two kinds of rather rudimentary songs. The first is a shrill, rising squee that lasts about 0.8 second, with a metallic sound. It’s reminiscent of the ree part of the Red-winged Blackbird’s conk-la-ree call. The second song is a nonmusical rushing gurgle, also lasting less than a second.
Calls
Brewer’s Blackbirds often make a tchup or chuk similar to the calls of other blackbirds, and used in a manner scientists have called “conversational in nature.” A more intense, slightly higher pitched version of this call is used as an alarm, to chase off intruders, and when carrying food for young. Males make a clear, descending whistle, about 0.5 second long, when they sight hawks or large birds. Quarreling females chatter at each other with a kit-tit-tit-tit call.
Backyard Tips
Brewer’s Blackbirds readily come to feeders, though they’re a bit clumsy when perching. You’re likely to get the best results by scattering seed on the ground or using an open platform feeder.
Find This Bird
Look for Brewer’s Blackbirds in two places: meandering along open ground, eyes peeled for crumbs, seeds, and insects; and perched up high, particularly on utility lines and in groups in the tops of trees.
Hear sounds and see videos of Brewer's Blackbird from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology's Macaulay Library archive
Get Involved
Check Project FeederWatch results for Brewer’s Blackbird sightings in your area. Then join the project and contribute your own sightings!
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