Tricolored Blackbirds - WA State USA (1 Viewer)

[BodyResults]

Two weeks ago I was looking for Tricolored Blackbirds in a known place for them near Walla Walla WA. There's an area that attracts hundreds of blackbirds.

I felt pretty confident that the first picture shows a Tricolored second from the left. The other two pictures have possible candidates for Tricolored but of course could be Red-winged Blackbirds.

I'd like to hear from experienced folks here about how which details you would go off on identification when you don't have an obvious bright white medium coverts with scarlet red lesser coverts. Also, any tips on the females here?

Thanks
Doug

 

[lmans66]

Touch call to make ......I know that unless I have some definitive proof, I won't label a bird that is not native to that area. I lived in WW for many years..... sure, perhaps one can get lost in the pack, that is a given...but I have seen many red winged looking just like your photo. jim

 

[BodyResults]

Thanks for the response Jim.

These Tricoloreds winter at this location each year and they have a regular breeding location at Sprague lake too.

 

[Tiraya]

That second bird in the first image is good for Tricoloured.

Not sure on the rest, the angle and detail makes it hard to determine whether its white or if its just yellow photographed oddly.

 

[lmans66]

Thanks for the response Jim.

These Tricoloreds winter at this location each year and they have a regular breeding location at Sprague lake too.

You are right...not in large numbers but 'here and there'.... The trick though is making sure that you really get a good shot showing it. jim