Black Rosy-Finch (Leucosticte atrata), Echo Cliffs, Coconino County

This flock of Black Rosy-Finches (up to 70 reported) was found by Gerry Nealon on 8 December 2018 and photographed by Jason Wilder on 10 December, by Deanna Bibbee on 15 December, by David Rosenberg on 18 December, and by Chris Rohrer on 21 December 2018.

Casual in Arizona and irruptive, with four records accepted by the ABC but an unknown number of occurrences prior to ABC records. This species may occur more regularly in Arizona than currently known, as most have been found in remote areas with little birder coverage.

These birds can be identified as Black Rosy-finches by their cold gray/black feathers on the face, breast and back; neat gray cap, and more limited pink on the belly.

10 December 2018, photo by Jason Wilder

 

15 December 2018, photo by Deanna Bibbee

 

18 December 2018, photo by David Rosenberg

 

21 December 2018, photo by Chris Rohrer

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