Verification of Unusual Sight Record
For Utah

Rec. # 2021-69


Common name:

Rusty Blackbird

Scientific name: Euphagus carolinus
Date: 09-28-2021
Time: 2:47 PM
Length of time observed: 20 minutes
Number: 1
Age: Adult
Sex: Female
 
Location: Red Canyon Lodge (feeder)
County: Daggett
Latilong:  --
Elevation: --
Distance to bird: 30 Feet
Optical equipment: 12X36 Cannon IS
Weather: Overcast
Light Conditions: Good
Description:        Size of bird: Blackbird Size
(Description:)       Basic Shape: Blackbird
(Description:)  Overall Pattern: Black/Slightly Rusty
(Description:)            Bill Type: Blackbird
(Description:)                              
Field Marks and
Identifying Characteristics:
Easily observed eyeing.
Side by side with female brewers' slightly lighter in plumage.
 
Song or call & method of delivery: visual
Behavior: At feeder
Habitat: pine/meadow/pond
Similar species and how
were they eliminated:
Brewers did not have eyeing and were darker in plumage
Previous experience with
this & similar species:
Fourth observation of rusty blackbirds in Utah (3) and Idaho (1).
References consulted: Peterson and Sibley western birds
Description from: Notes taken at the time of the sighting
Observer: Dennis D. Austin
Observer's address: 43 South 700 East. Hyrum, Utah. 84319
Observer's e-mail address: **
Other observers who independently identified this bird: None
Date prepared: 11-16-2021
Additional material:  
Additional comments: I was surprised to find a rusty at this location. The contrast with the brewers was clearcut. I also thought there was a male rusty present, but I could not separate it from the brewers--could not see a green sheen on the crown--probably due to good but not the best lighting.