Chopi Blackbird

Overview

The chopi blackbird (Gnorimopsar chopi) is a passerine bird belonging to the family Icteridae. It is the only species in the monospecific genus Gnorimopsar and is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Measures 25 cm in length with all-black plumage.
• Features a slightly curved bill with a distinct groove along the lower mandible.
• Produces a loud, explosive 'tjouw' call, often delivered in a random series that varies in pitch.

Habitat

Found in South America south of the Amazon rainforest, ranging from south-east Peru through Bolivia, Paraguay, Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina. It inhabits open and swamp forests, forest edges, palm stands, and Araucaria angustifolia groves.

Diet

Forages mainly on the ground but readily ascends into trees to feed.

Did you know?

The bird's common name and specific epithet are onomatopoeic, derived from its common vocalisation which is sometimes written as 'chop-ee'.