Dives dives
The Melodious Blackbird (Dives dives) is a medium-sized passerine, instantly recognizable by its entirely glossy black plumage, which shimmers with blue-green iridescence in good light, contrasting sharply with its striking pale yellow to white eyes. Measuring about 23-28 cm (9-11 inches) in length and weighing approximately 70-90 grams, it possesses a slender, pointed bill and a relatively long tail. A key field mark distinguishing it from other blackbirds is its combination of the slender b...
This adaptable species thrives in a variety of semi-open habitats, including open woodlands, clearings, parks, gardens, coffee plantations, and urban/suburban environments, typically found from sea level up to elevations of about 2000 meters.
Primarily omnivorous, their diet consists mainly of insects (grasshoppers, beetles, caterpillars) and fruits, supplemented by nectar and some seeds, typically gleaned from the ground or vegetation.
Melodious Blackbirds are diurnal and frequently seen foraging on the ground or in low vegetation, often in small, loose flocks outside the breeding season, occasionally forming larger communal roosts. Their foraging strategy primarily involves gleaning insects and small fruits from the ground or ...
The Melodious Blackbird is a widespread resident species found across a significant portion of Middle and northern South America. Its primary breeding and year-round range extends from southern Mexico, encompassing both the Pacific and Gulf slopes, southward through virtually all of Central Ameri...
Least Concern
- The Melodious Blackbird's song is considered one of the most beautiful among New World blackbirds, often described as rich, fluty, and varied, sometimes including mimicry of other bird calls. - Despite its common name, it is more closely related to grackles and cowbirds than to true thrushes, w...