[header] How to identify red winged blackbirds [title] Know the red-winged blackbird's habitat. [step] You can find them by walking near the shore of a lake or river, using binoculars or a scope to spot them. Check trees and shrubs along the water's edge. 
You can take a boat out as well, but always take proper caution while operating boats. Red-winged blackbirds are almost always found near water sources.