Austral Blackbird

Overview

The austral blackbird (Curaeus curaeus) is a species of bird in the family Icteridae. It is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List, with a stable population estimated to be under 10,000 individuals.

Identification

• Entirely black plumage with a slight bluish hint.
• Black legs, black eyes, and a sharp beak.
• Highly varied voice, often engaging in group singing and calling.

Habitat

Found in Argentina and Chile, inhabiting temperate forests, subtropical or tropical high-altitude shrubland, and heavily degraded former forest. It also frequents woodlands, lakeshores, beaches, fields, valley bottoms, and rocky shores, typically in small flocks of 6 to 20 rather than in open land.

Diet

Omnivorous, feeding on nectar, wild and regular fruits such as cherries and grapes, and seeds like oats and wheat. The consumption of nectar can create a yellow coloration around the head and face.

Did you know?

The bird's diet of nectar can produce a visible yellow coloration around its head and face, temporarily changing its appearance to the viewer's eye. Breeding occurs between October and December, with nests constructed from twigs, grass stems, bamboo leaves, and mud.