Euphagus carolinus
The Rusty Blackbird, *Euphagus carolinus*, is a medium-sized passerine, slenderer than a Common Grackle but larger than a Red-winged Blackbird, measuring 21-25 cm (8.3-9.8 in) in length with a wingspan of 36-39 cm (14-15 in). In non-breeding (winter) plumage, adults are distinctly characterized by their dull black body feathers edged with rufous or rusty brown, giving them a mottled appearance, contrasting with their striking pale yellow irises. Males are glossier black with less rusty edging...
Primarily inhabits forested wetlands, swamps, bogs, beaver ponds, and slow-moving streams, typically at low to moderate elevations.
Feeds primarily on aquatic and terrestrial insects, their larvae, and other invertebrates, supplemented by small fish, seeds, and occasionally berries.
Rusty Blackbirds are diurnal and typically forage alone or in small family groups during the breeding season, becoming highly gregarious in winter, often forming mixed-species flocks with other blackbirds, starlings, and grackles. They are active foragers, often wading in shallow water to probe t...
The Rusty Blackbird's breeding range spans the boreal forests of Alaska and Canada, extending south into the Great Lakes region and parts of northern New England and the Appalachians in the United States. Its primary wintering grounds are concentrated in the southeastern United States, particular...
Vulnerable
- The Rusty Blackbird has experienced one of the most dramatic population declines of any North American bird, with estimates of 85-99% loss over the last 50 years. - Its common name comes from the rusty or rufous feather edges seen in its distinctive non-breeding (winter) plumage. - Unlike most ...