Rusty blackbird migration blitz

[recurve]

Keep an eye out for rusty blackbirds!

Get your Blitz On: Rusty Blackbird Spring Migration Blitz opens March 1st | eBird

"Previously a common sight in mixed-blackbird flocks and flooded forests, Rusty Blackbirds now face an unfortunate and remarkable notoriety; this species has endured a decline more severe than any other once-common landbird, with population decreases of 85-95% over the past half-century. Understanding the ecology of this vulnerable species is critical for developing strategies to reverse these declines and protect this species."


My first Rusty ever this morning!

[linrose]

Which one? How can you tell a rusty from other blackbirds?

[recurve]

Sorry the picture is not the best. But you can see the tell tale yellow eye. And the feathers have brown tips giving it a rusty appearance.

[linrose]

Yes, I see the pale yellow eye. Do you think they are a winter bird for you or are in migration?

[recurve]

They are starting to migrate through to their breeding grounds in Canada I believe.

[recurve]

Here's a little more info on Rusty blackbirds.

Rusty Blackbird, Identification, All About Birds - Cornell Lab of Ornithology

[linrose]

Thanks recurve, I will definitely be on the lookout for them, the return of the blackbirds in mixed flocks has sparked my interest. So far I've only seen red-wings, grackles and cowbirds but I need to be more observant of those groups to make sure I don't overlook the rusties.

[EllenW]

I'll have to look more closely at the flocks of blackbirds I'm getting. I have never noticed them but there are reports of rusty blackbirds in my area. Thanks for the info. recurve.