The yellow-rumped marshbird is a species of bird in the family Icteridae. It is a medium-sized bird found in Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay, where its natural habitats are dry savanna, swamps, and pastureland.
Region
Southeastern South America
Typical Environment
Found in Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay, especially in the Pampas and campos grasslands, marsh edges, and wet savannas. It frequents swamps, reedbeds, sedge marshes, flooded pastureland, and rice fields. The species favors mosaic landscapes with open water, emergent vegetation, and nearby open ground for foraging. It is mostly a lowland bird, occurring from coastal plains inland to gently rolling countryside.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This icterid often forages in small, noisy flocks across open wetlands and grazed pastures, flashing its bright yellow rump in flight. It can benefit from low-intensity cattle grazing that maintains short grass, but drainage of wetlands and heavy pesticide use can reduce local numbers. The species is generally confiding and perches conspicuously on fences and reed stems.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct flights over grass and reeds
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or small flocks, sometimes forming larger groups outside the breeding season. Nests are placed low in marsh vegetation or shrubs, typically near water. Both parents attend the nest and defend a small area around it, though overall the species is fairly tolerant of conspecifics.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are harsh, chattering, and buzzy, with metallic notes and sharp chips. Song bouts are delivered from exposed perches and within flocks, often interspersed with contact calls while foraging.
