The solitary cacique or solitary black cacique is a species of bird in the family Icteridae.
Region
Amazon and Paraná–Paraguay basins, northern and central South America
Typical Environment
Occurs widely in humid lowland forests, especially along rivers, in flooded várzea and igapó, gallery forests, and tall secondary growth. It favors forest edges, vine tangles, and canopy or subcanopy layers where it can move discreetly. The species also extends south into subtropical riparian forests of the Paraná–Paraguay system. It is typically associated with watercourses and mosaic habitats where fruiting trees and insect prey are abundant.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The solitary cacique is unusual among caciques in that it often forages and breeds alone rather than in colonies. It is a sleek, mostly black icterid with a contrasting pale bill and a long tail, frequenting riverine and edge habitats. Its varied, somewhat mechanical whistles and squeaks can make it easier to detect than to see in dense foliage.
Temperament
solitary and discreet
Flight Pattern
direct flight with short, rapid wingbeats between brief glides
Social Behavior
Usually encountered alone or in pairs, occasionally joining mixed-species flocks at forest edges. Unlike many caciques, it tends to nest singly rather than in colonies, weaving a suspended, bag-like nest from plant fibers. Pairs maintain small territories during the breeding season.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of varied whistles, squeaks, and chattering notes with a slightly metallic quality. Calls are delivered from concealed perches and may include mimicry-like phrases. Vocalizations carry well through riverine forest.
