Cacique Candela
Red-bellied Grackle
Hypopyrrhus pyrohypogaster
Song
Red-bellied Grackle
Appearance: The Red-bellied Grackle is a striking bird with a glossy black plumage and a distinctive bright red belly and undertail coverts. It has a long tail and a relatively robust body. The contrast between the black and red colors makes it easy to identify. Both males and females have similar plumage, although males are slightly larger.
Habitat: This species is found in subtropical or tropical moist montane forests. It prefers the forest canopy and edges, often in areas with dense vegetation. The Red-bellied Grackle is found at elevations between 1,200 and 2,200 m above sea level.
Behavior: Red-bellied Grackles are social birds, often seen in small groups or flocks. They are known for their bold and active behavior, frequently foraging in the forest canopy. Their diet consists mainly of insects, fruits, and seeds. The species is also known for its vocalizations, which include a variety of calls and songs.
Breeding: The breeding season for the Red-bellied Grackle occurs during the rainy season when food is abundant. They build cup-shaped nests in trees, where the female lays two to three eggs. Both parents are involved in feeding and caring for the young.
Conservation Status The Red-bellied Grackle is currently listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.
Distribution
The Red-bellied Grackle is endemic to Colombia, meaning it is found nowhere else in the world. Its distribution is limited to the central Andes, particularly in the regions of Antioquia, Caldas, Risaralda,Tolima, and Huila. Due to its restricted range and habitat preferences, conservation of its montane forest environment is crucial for its continued survival.
Taxonomy
The Red-bellied Grackle (Hypopyrrhus pyrohypogaster)
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Aves (Birds)
- Order: Passeriformes
- Family: Icteridae
- Genus: Hypopyrrhus
- Species: Hypopyrrhus pyrohypogaster
Vocalization
The Red-bellied Grackle is a bird species endemic to Colombia and is known for its distinctive vocalizations. The vocal repertoire of the Red-bellied Grackle includes a variety of calls and songs that are often described as loud and melodious. These vocalizations are used for communication between individuals, especially during the breeding season, and can include whistles, chattering, and other complex sounds.
The grackle's calls are used to establish territory, attract mates, and communicate with other members of their flock. Each bird may have a unique set of calls, and their vocalizations can vary depending on the context and the individual bird's role within the social structure of their group.