This Is Illinois' Most Annoying Animal In The Springtime

Illinois gets many visitors in nature during the springtime. However, some are definitely more pleasant than others. This may just be the most annoying of them all.

I'll start by saying this is strictly my opinion based on my experience. I love animals so much, but some have just been cruel to me hahaha.

One of the Most Annoying Animals in Illinois During Spring - The Red-Winged Blackbird

You heard that correctly. I know these creatures from a mile away. Their sound haunts my nightmares. If you're not familiar with what the Red-Winged Blackbird looks like, here's what I'm talking about.

I'm a massive bird lover. Every time I see a Cardinal, Goldfinch or Blue Jay, I have to stop and gawk at them. I often get the most flack for liking Blue Jays because they're "aggressive." And to that I say, so am I? Hahah. They're just really pretty!

Growing up, my Grandpa and Mom used to always tell me that Red-Winged Blackbirds were the official sign that spring was here. And as a kid, I loved that. But, if people want to say Blue Jays are aggressive, they need to come into contact with these birds.

No other bird on planet Earth has dove at my head more than these guys. I remember Mom sending me out to get the mail as a kid and these jerks would be out there waiting and diving at me... and then I'd come in and Mom would be laughing. SUCH a nice interaction with Mother Nature. Not to mention, their noise is SO obvious to me, but maybe that's my hypervigilance because I hear the enemy nearby.

I had one get a little heated with me the other day while I was on a hike down by the Rock River. So yeah, my fear and frustration of them have been ongoing and consistent.

If you like them, I get excited when they come back too! I just wish they were nicer to me. If they've left you running in fear, I know your pain. Spring brings the fun but also the feisty out I guess haha.

What are some animals that bug you or that you love to see during the springtime? I'll have to keep my eyes open and watch for them! But while we're at it, here's some more nature-esque content I found!