The Rusty Blackbird (Euphagus carolinus) is a widespread North American species that has shown chronic long-term and acute short-term population declines, based both on breeding season and wintering ground surveys.
The decline, although one of the most profound for any North American species, is poorly understood. In fact, until recently, no conservation or monitoring programs existed for this species.
In February 2005, the International Rusty Blackbird Technical Working Group was formed to develop a cross-seasonal and comprehensive research program in hopes to to better understand the causes and ecological significance of the Rusty Blackbirds’ decline.