Rusty Blackbird
In the breeding season, the Rusty Blackbird is the only blackbird in most of its range and is easily identified. In autumn, the rusty tinge to the mantle and light eyes of both sexes distinguish this species from the similar Brewer's Blackbird, which is abundant in most of the West.

In spring males are black, with a bluish and greenish iridescence while the females are dark gray. In fall they are much more rust-brown, especially the head, breast and back. Conspicuous pale yellow eyes are evident in both sexes.

The Rusty Blackbird breeds from Alaska and across northern Canada to southern Canada, northern New York and northern New England. It winters from southeastern South Dakota and southern New England south to Gulf Coast. The Rusty Blackbird inhabits boreal bogs in the breeding season. It prefers wooded swamps and damp woods with pools during migration.
Rusty Blackbird Range Map

The Rusty Blackbird's song is similar to the squeaks of a rusty gate. Its call note a sharp "check".


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