Family: Icteridae (New World blackbirds)

Authority: (Audubon, 1837)

Red List Category

Criteria: A2bc+4bc

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Justification of Red List category
This colonially breeding species is listed as Endangered because it has undergone rapid declines in excess of 60% in recent years, largely in response to losses of nesting and foraging habitat, low reproductive success in native habitats correlated with low insect abundance, persistent insecticide use and until recently, breeding failure in harvested agricultural fields. Despite comprehensive monitoring, a rapid increase in knowledge and citizen science-aided surveys, and effective data management, only in the past five years has there been considerable efforts and a legal framework to prevent the destruction of breeding colonies. Declines may have slowed or reversed in recent years however, the most recent population survey is yet to occur and as such, given the extremely rapid declines evidenced in recent years, the species is retained as Endangered. Further evidence that suggests declines have slowed/reversed may result in this species being listed under a lower threat category.

Population size: unknown

Population trend: decreasing

Extent of occurrence (breeding/resident): 758,000 km²

Country endemic: no

Attributes
USFWS - Bird of Conservation Concern
Realm - Nearctic
IUCN System - Freshwater
IUCN System - Terrestrial