Rusty Blackbird (Euphagus carolinus), Near Red Rock Feedlot, Pinal County

This Rusty Blackbird was found by Jennie MacFarland on 31 December 2018 and photographed by Richard Fray on the same date.

There are currently 36 accepted records for the state.  Populations of Rusty Blackbirds have seriously declined throughout its range due to unknown causes.

Size and shape similar to Brewer's Blackbird, blackish tail and wings with slight rusty edges on tertials and iner greater coverts; rusty crown and back, gray rump; pale eye contrasting with narrow black mask and dark eyeline on an otherwise buffy face and supercilium.

31 December 2018, photo by Richard Fray

All photos are copyrighted© by photographer