Chrysomus icterocephalus
The Yellow-hooded Blackbird (Chrysomus icterocephalus) is a strikingly dimorphic passerine in the family Icteridae, renowned for its brilliant coloration. Males are entirely glossy black with a contrasting, luminous yellow head and upper breast, sometimes extending to the upper back, giving them an unmistakable appearance. They typically measure around 18 cm (7.1 in) in length and weigh 35-42 grams. Females are considerably duller and smaller, averaging 16 cm (6.3 in) and 25-30 grams, featuri...
Primarily inhabits freshwater marshes, swamps, wet grasslands, and rice fields, typically at low elevations. It shows a strong preference for areas with dense emergent vegetation over open water.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on beetles, grasshoppers, flies, and their larvae. Also consumes seeds, particularly rice and other grains, and occasionally nectar.
Yellow-hooded Blackbirds are diurnal and highly social, particularly during the breeding season when they form dense, polygynous colonies. Males establish and vigorously defend small territories within the colony, performing elaborate bowing and song displays to attract mates. Females construct d...
The Yellow-hooded Blackbird is a widespread resident throughout northern South America and parts of the Caribbean. Its breeding and year-round range extends across Colombia, Venezuela, Trinidad and Tobago, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana, and northern Brazil. It also occurs in eastern Ecuador, ea...
Least Concern
- The male Yellow-hooded Blackbird's vibrant yellow head is a striking example of carotenoid-based plumage coloration, signaling health and fitness to potential mates. - They are highly colonial breeders, with some colonies numbering hundreds of pairs packed closely together in marsh vegetation. ...