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Over-the-counter deer firearm permit sales begin on Tuesday, Oct. 20. Due to recent software updates beyond IDNR’s control, some vendors may have limited availability to print permits and licenses. IDNR is working closely with the license system provider to quickly address the issue for those vendors. To locate unaffected vendors, use the agent locator at https://www.exploremoreil.com/agentlocator.

Governor JB Pritzker Illinois.gov Contact IDNR DNR A to Z

Wild About Illinois Birds

Blackbirds, Bobolinks, Meadowlarks, Orioles and Grackles

Blackbirds & Bobolinks
Meadowlarks
Orioles & Grackles

Family and Species Gallery

Order Passeriformes - These are birds with adaptations for holding on to thin twigs or stems. Three of the toes on each foot face forward and one backward to help it grasp and balance on small branches.
Family Icteridae (Blackbirds) - Blackbirds have a medium-sized, sharp-pointed bill. In most species, the male and female have different coloration. The diet consists of insects, seeds, fruits and other items.
     yellow-headed blackbird (Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus) [state endangered]
     bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus)
     eastern meadowlark (Sturnella magna)
     western meadowlark (Sturnella neglecta)
     orchard oriole (Icterus spurius)
     Baltimore oriole (Icterus galbula)
     red-winged blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus)
     brown-headed cowbird (Molothrus ater)
     rusty blackbird (Euphagus carolinus)
     Brewer’s blackbird (Euphagus cyanocephalus)
     common grackle (Quiscalus quiscula)
      great-tailed grackle (Quiscalus mexicanus)