The scarlet-rumped cacique is a passerine bird species in the New World family Icteridae.
Region
Central America to northwestern South America
Typical Environment
Found from southern Central America through Panama into Colombia and Ecuador, with populations in humid lowland and foothill forests. It favors forest edges, secondary growth, riparian corridors, and plantations adjacent to intact forest. Birds typically forage in the mid-story to canopy but will descend to fruiting shrubs. They adapt moderately well to mosaic landscapes as long as tall trees remain for nesting. Local abundance can be highest along riverine forest and at forest–clearings interfaces.
Altitude Range
0–1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This striking icterid is named for its vivid scarlet rump that contrasts with otherwise glossy black plumage. It weaves long, pendulous, bag-like nests—often near active wasp nests—which may help deter predators. Scarlet-rumped caciques are social birds, frequently moving in small groups through the forest canopy and edges. Their varied vocal repertoire includes whistles, chatters, and squeaky notes.
in Costa Rica
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
direct flight with rapid wingbeats; strong flier
Social Behavior
Often travels in small groups or mixed-species flocks, foraging high in the forest. Nests colonially, suspending long woven nests from slender branches, frequently near wasp nests to reduce predation. Males display at nest sites and may defend small territories within the colony. Both sexes participate in nest building to varying degrees.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include clear whistles, chattering phrases, and buzzy or squeaky notes. Songs can be varied and interspersed with rattles and calls, carrying well through forest edges and canopy.
Plumage
Glossy black overall with a conspicuous, bright scarlet rump and lower back; feathers sleek and smooth.
Diet
Eats a mix of insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates gleaned from foliage and bark. Also consumes fruits and berries such as figs, and may take nectar from flowers. Occasionally hawks for flying insects and investigates epiphytes for hidden prey. Opportunistic feeding allows it to thrive in semi-open forest mosaics.
Preferred Environment
Forages mainly in the mid-story to canopy along forest edges, river margins, and clearings. Frequently visits fruiting trees and flowering plants and may follow mixed-species flocks. Uses tall trees for feeding and nesting in otherwise disturbed landscapes.
