Red-bellied Grackle

Overview

The red-bellied grackle (Hypopyrrhus pyrohypogaster) is a species of bird in the family Icteridae that is endemic to Colombia. It is considered a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature due to threats from habitat destruction, although its status was downlisted from endangered in 2012.

Identification

• Entirely black plumage with a distinct red belly and red under-tail coverts in both sexes.
• Males measure approximately 30 cm (12 in) and females about 27 cm (10.6 in).
• Features a conical bill and white or yellow irises.
• Head, neck, and throat feathers possess shiny, naked shafts with thick, narrow webs.

Habitat

This species is found in all three Andean ranges of Colombia at altitudes between 800 and 2,400 m. Its natural habitat consists of subtropical or tropical moist montane forests, though it also tolerates disturbance and can be observed in forest edges, plantations, scrub, and pastures.

Diet

The red-bellied grackle feeds on fruit and insects by scrambling among branches and foliage, occasionally clinging upside down. Outside of the breeding season, it is typically seen foraging in small, noisy groups within the canopy.

Did you know?

The giant cowbird sometimes parasitises the red-bellied grackle by laying its own eggs in the grackle's cup-shaped nest. These nests are loosely constructed from sticks and dead leaves situated in the fork of a tree.