Cacicus koepckeae
The Selva Cacique (Cacicus koepckeae) is a strikingly uniform, medium-sized member of the Icteridae family, typically measuring about 20-22 cm (8-8.7 inches) in length and weighing around 40-50 grams. Its plumage is predominantly glossy black, contrasting sharply with a bright, iridescent yellow rump and undertail coverts, a distinctive field mark that aids in identification among its similar-looking congeners. Another key identification feature is its pale, often bluish-white iris, which sta...
Primarily inhabits lowland Amazonian forests, particularly várzea (seasonally flooded) forests near rivers and oxbow lakes, but also found in adjacent terra firme forests. Typically occurs at elevations below 500 meters (1,640 feet).
Mainly insectivorous, feeding on a variety of insects and other arthropods gleaned from foliage. It also supplements its diet with small fruits.
The Selva Cacique is a diurnal and rather reclusive bird, often observed singly or in pairs, occasionally joining small, loose mixed-species flocks foraging in the canopy and subcanopy. It employs a foraging strategy of actively gleaning insects and other arthropods from foliage and branches. Inf...
The Selva Cacique has an extremely restricted and localized range, primarily found in southeastern Peru. Its distribution centers on the lowlands of the Madre de Dios, Ucayali, and Loreto departments, often along major river systems and their tributaries. There are also potential, unconfirmed pop...
Vulnerable
- The Selva Cacique is named after the renowned German ornithologist Maria Koepcke, who conducted extensive research in Peru. - It is considered one of the most enigmatic and least studied species within the diverse Icteridae family due to its extremely shy nature and restricted range. - Its pale...