The Colombian mountain grackle, is a species of bird in the family Icteridae.
Region
Northern Andes
Typical Environment
Found in humid montane and cloud forests of the Colombian Andes, especially along edges, secondary growth, and forested ravines. It favors moss-laden trees with abundant epiphytes and often uses forest clearings and roadsides for foraging. The species ranges in the Central and Western Cordilleras, with a patchy distribution tied to intact forest. Fragmentation restricts movements between suitable habitat blocks.
Altitude Range
1500–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Endemic to the montane forests of the Colombian Andes, this grackle is a highland specialist in the blackbird family (Icteridae). It often travels in small, noisy groups and forages methodically through mossy limbs and epiphytes. Ongoing habitat loss and fragmentation in cloud forests have put it at risk, making reliable sightings noteworthy for birders and researchers.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
direct flight with steady, rapid wingbeats; short canopy-to-canopy dashes
Social Behavior
Usually encountered in pairs or small, loose groups that move together while foraging through midstory and canopy. It may join mixed-species flocks along forest edges. Nests are placed in trees or dense vegetation within montane forest, with breeding likely tied to local rainy seasons. Adults exhibit alert sentinel behavior while others forage.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are a mix of harsh grating notes, chatters, and metallic squeaks delivered in short series. Males often call from exposed perches, and groups can produce a noisy chorus during active foraging.
