Rusty Blackbirds Abbotsford Jan 1

[Jamie]

The 2 rusty blackbirds continue in the Costco parking lot amongst the Brewer's blackbirds and cowbirds this morning. There is a male and female. It's been around 10 years since I've last seen one, and this was my closest look at them. Not a bad way to start the year

Female

Male

[Gord]

We popped by the Costco parking lot this morning to check on the blackbirds. Costco was closed which was great. We found a male and female Rusty among the Brewer’s. At least 70 Brown-headed Cowbirds as well which was a very high count. A nice start to 2024 and beautiful weather as well.

[Gord]

Fantastic photos!

I thought it be interesting to share a photo of one of a couple Brewer's Blackbirds that we saw today. These are the odd ones that in the winter have some patterning on them. If one expects (rightfully) that a male Brewer's is nice and black, seeing a bird like the photo below could get one thinking is it a Rusty.

_0233726 by Geordie LaForge, on Flickr

A view of the back and wings shows a lack of rufous edging.

_0233730 by Geordie LaForge, on Flickr

Later spring is when it could start to get a bit tricky. It may be interesting to know that Rustys and also Brewers (by all accounts) molt only once a year. They don't have a winter plumage and then a summer plumage like many birds. The Rustys we see now are more or less still in fresh plumage from their earlier fall molt. Over time, up until the breeding season, this rusty colour will wear off leaving a black bird in worn, old plumage. A later spring male Rusty Blackbird could blend in with the Brewer's. Or, a Brewer's that still has some markings could suggest a late-staying Rusty to eager viewers. But, like the Rusty, any markings will wear off on these uncommonly marked Brewer's by the spring too so overlap is unlikely.

Some of the large numbers of Brown-headed Cowbirds. Quite unusual for winter to see this many.

_0233720 by Geordie LaForge, on Flickr

[kestrel]

At least one of them continues, near the gas station. Second time's a charm .

Rusty blackbird by Joel Schmidt, on Flickr

[Chris]

Nice one Joel. Seeing as how many people put out seed for them, I wouldn't be surprised if they continue for a while.

[Randy]

Nice one Joel, great photo too!

No surprise they came in a 2 pack given that they were at Costco

[Dave]

Wow! Great picture, Joel!

[kestrel]

Thanks, guys! It was a new BC bird for me.