Oriole Blackbird
NameOriole Blackbird
Common NameYellow-headed Blackbird
Scientific NameXanthocephalus xanthocephalus
FamilyIcteridae
Wingspan (cm)44
Length (cm)23
Weight (g)55
Plumage DetailsAdult males have a brilliant yellow head, throat, and breast, sharply delineated from a glossy black body, wings, and tail. A prominent white patch is visible on the primary coverts of the wing. Females are duller, mostly brownish with a yellowish wash on the face and breast, and less distinct markings.
Vocalization / CallTheir vocalizations are often described as harsh, reedy, and unmusical. The song is a series of raspy, buzzy notes, sometimes likened to a frog's croak or a rusty gate.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatswetland, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across western and central North America, from southern Canada south through the western and central United States. Winters primarily in the southwestern United States and Mexico.
Identifying Featuresbright yellow head and breast (male), glossy black body (male), white wing patch (male), marsh and wetland habitat, harsh, reedy calls
Description
This striking medium-sized blackbird is easily identified by the male's bright yellow head and chest contrasting with a black body. They are highly social birds, often found in large colonies in marshy habitats, where males display prominently to attract mates.
