According to the calendar, spring begins in late March. But Minnesota's weather doesn't always show it. One day may be sunny and warm, and the next cold and windy. When the weather is so mixed up, how can you be sure the season is changing? Listen for the red-winged blackbird.

Ooo-kuh-REEE!

The singer appears suddenly, perched atop a tree like a king on his throne. Fluffing out his feathers, the bird gazes around and sings again. His voice carries loud and clear. A second red-winged blackbird lands nearby, then another and another. Soon the air is filled with the hopeful songs of spring.

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