Austral Blackbird Curaeus curaeus Scientific name definitions

Ecologically in the southern temperate forests and Matorral habitats, the Austral Blackbird has a role similar to that of jays in the northern hemisphere. They are found in small flocks, and usually within the forest itself. They are not an open country blackbird at all. They like forest, forest edge, or shrubby slopes. They forage both in the foliage and limbs, but also drop to the forest floor at times. They are particularly fond of nectar, and often feed on the flowers of Puya spp. in parts of their range, these plants and others they visit often cover their faces in saffron colored pollen creating a striking yellow-headed look that can confuse the novice observer. The breeding behavior of this blackbird has not been studied, but it would not be surprising to find out that this species is one which has helpers at the nest. This has been suggested, but not confirmed. Vocally, this is a rather melodious blackbird and has a relatively complex song for an all-black icterid.

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Editor's Note: Additional distribution information for this taxon can be found in the 'Subspecies' article above. In the future we will develop a range-wide distribution article.