Psarocolius cassini
The Baudo Oropendola (Psarocolius cassini) is a striking and relatively large passerine bird, endemic to the highly threatened Chocó biogeographic region of western Colombia and northwestern Ecuador. Adults are predominantly covered in glossy black plumage, sharply contrasted by a rich chestnut back and rump. A defining characteristic is its bright yellow tail, especially the outer feathers, which flash conspicuously in flight. Its head features a distinctive pale, conical bill, typically pin...
Found in lowland, wet, humid primary and mature secondary forests, often near rivers or clearings, primarily at elevations from sea level up to 900 meters.
Primarily omnivorous, feeding on a mix of large insects and other arthropods, as well as various fruits, foraging by gleaning from foliage.
Baudo Oropendolas are diurnal birds, typically observed foraging individually or in small groups high in the forest canopy, gleaning insects and fruits. They are colonial nesters, with males exhibiting polygynous mating systems and defending the nesting sites. Courtship involves elaborate bowing ...
The Baudo Oropendola is strictly endemic to the Chocó biogeographic region of western Colombia and northwestern Ecuador. In Colombia, its range extends from the northern Chocó department, south through the departments of Cauca and Nariño along the Pacific slope. In northwestern Ecuador, it is fou...
Vulnerable
- The Baudo Oropendola is named after the Baudo Mountains in Colombia, a key part of its endemic range. - Its striking pale bill, often with an orange tip, combined with a bright blue iris, makes it one of the most distinctive oropendolas. - Males are significantly larger than females, a common t...