The pale-eyed blackbird is a species of bird in the family Icteridae. It is found in Ecuador and Peru where its natural habitat is swamps. An inconspicuous bird of very local occurrence, it was first described in 1969 by American ornithologist Lester L. Short.
Region
Western Amazon Basin (Ecuador and northeastern Peru)
Typical Environment
Occurs very locally in freshwater marshes, swamps, and the vegetated margins of oxbow lakes and sluggish river backwaters. Favors dense stands of reeds, sedges, and floating or emergent plants where it forages close to the water surface. Typically keeps to the interior of marshes, moving through thick cover and occasionally perching on exposed stems to sing. May also use seasonally flooded meadows and human-influenced wetlands with suitable cover.
Altitude Range
0–400 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This elusive icterid of lowland swamps was only described in 1969 by Lester L. Short. Its striking pale yellow-white iris is diagnostic and contrasts strongly with its otherwise all-dark appearance. It often keeps low in dense marsh vegetation, making it easy to overlook. It can be confused with the Unicolored Blackbird, but that species has dark eyes.
Temperament
skulking and inconspicuous
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low direct flights over marsh openings
Social Behavior
Usually found singly, in pairs, or small family groups within dense marsh vegetation. Nests are placed low over water in thick reeds or sedges; pairs defend small territories. Displays involve short song perches and brief chases through vegetation. Outside breeding, small loose groups may form in productive wetland patches.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a brief series of thin, squeaky whistles delivered from a low perch. Calls include sharp chips and metallic notes that carry through dense reeds. Vocalizations are simple but distinctive within its limited range.
