The saffron-cowled blackbird is a species of bird in the family Icteridae. It is the only species placed in the genus Xanthopsar. It has bright yellow underparts and black or dark brown upperparts. It is found in Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and in Uruguay at the Quebrada de los Cuervos. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical dry lowland grassland, subtropical or tropical seasonally wet or flooded lowland grassland, and pastureland. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Region
Southern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs in southern Brazil, eastern Paraguay, northeastern Argentina, and locally in Uruguay. Prefers open lowland grasslands, including seasonally wet or flooded campos and pastures, as well as marshy meadows and rice-field margins. Breeding often takes place in dense grass tussocks or sedge patches near shallow water. It tolerates some grazing but declines where grasslands are converted to intensive agriculture or tree plantations.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This striking icterid is the sole member of the genus Xanthopsar and is immediately recognized by its saffron-yellow hood and underparts. It breeds in loose colonies in natural and grazed grasslands and often uses seasonally flooded pastures. Rapid loss and fragmentation of South American grasslands have pushed it toward extinction. Protection of native campos and careful management of wetlands and pasturelands are critical for its survival.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct flights over grasslands
Social Behavior
Typically forms small colonies during breeding, nesting in dense grasses or sedges often near shallow water. Males display conspicuously atop stems, while females conduct most nest-building and incubation. Outside the breeding season it may form small flocks and sometimes associates with other icterids.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of thin, tinkling notes mixed with buzzy phrases, delivered from exposed perches. Calls include sharp chips and metallic tsee notes used to keep contact within colonies.
