Hypopyrrhus pyrohypogaster
The striking Red-bellied Grackle (Hypopyrrhus pyrohypogaster) is a large, robust icterid, measuring approximately 30-35 cm (12-14 inches) in length, with a long, graduated tail and a stout, conical black bill. Adults are predominantly iridescent, glossy black over most of their body, contrasted dramatically by a vibrant, deep rufous-red belly and undertail coverts – a feature unique among grackle species. This vivid ventral coloration is the primary and most unmistakable field mark, allowing ...
This species primarily inhabits humid montane forests, particularly cloud forests and the edges of mature forests, ranging from 800 to 2,400 meters (2,600-7,900 feet) in elevation.
Their diet is omnivorous, consisting mainly of large insects and other invertebrates gleaned from foliage and bark, supplemented significantly by a variety of wild fruits and berries.
Red-bellied Grackles are highly social and diurnal birds, typically moving in small to medium-sized flocks of 3-10 individuals, sometimes congregating in larger groups or joining mixed-species foraging parties. They forage actively in the mid-story and canopy of trees, meticulously gleaning insec...
The Red-bellied Grackle is strictly endemic to the humid montane forests of Colombia, primarily confined to the slopes of the three Andean cordilleras. Its distribution spans from the Western Andes in northern Chocó and Antioquia departments, south through the Central Andes including Caldas, Risa...
Vulnerable
- The Red-bellied Grackle is the *only* grackle species in the world to feature a distinct rufous-red belly, making it an exceptionally unique member of the Icteridae family. - It is entirely endemic to Colombia, meaning it can be found nowhere else on Earth in the wild. - Despite its classificat...