Rusty Blackbirds have experienced steep population declines and conservationists are looking for birders like you to help understand this commonly overlooked species. In 2014, the International Rusty Blackbird Working Group launched the Rusty Blackbird Spring Migration Blitz that challenged birders to scour the landscape for Rusty Blackbirds during this species’ northward migration. Nearly 5,000 birders submitted over 13,000 eBird checklists for The Blitz in 2014 and this mountain of data helped to identify migratory hotspots, habitat use, and potential migratory pathways. Michigan clearly emerged as an important migratory pathway for Rusties, but more birders are needed this year to re-visit potential hotspots and search new areas that were missed in 2014. Anyone can participate and it’s easy to get involved; just go birding! From March – June look and listen for these “squeaky-hinge” birds and report your sightings on eBird (if you do not use eBird but still want to participate, please contact Rachelle at [email protected]). For more information on identifying Rusties, finding Rusty habitat, and how to submit your sightings, please visit www.rustyblackbird.org.
