If you bike in Chicago (i.e. Middle's Middle et al, aka the Hole in One King), becoming proficient at dog barking is prudent

The Chicago Tribune reports a warning from onithologist Doug Stotz that the redwing blackbird is in full attack mode in Chicago.

“Nesting season is in full swing for the red-winged blackbird, making the males extremely aggressive. Walk or bike too close to one's nest and expect to hear its high, menacing squawk overhead. Then comes the peck-peck-peck on your head, victims say, or claws rustling your hair.”

"The Birds" in Chicago are especially active near parks vacant lots, ponds and “along the lakefront.”

Once they become aggressive, they can remain aggressive for as long as a month.

They go after unsuspecting bikers, and once they pick a target, they can chase it down for up to 100 yards.

The remedy: “stay alert and look directly at the bird . . . [a]nd when all else fails and dignity is not a factor. . . the bird will shoo if you bark like a dog."

Bark like a dog. Never thought of that.