Agelasticus cyanopus is a species of bird that belongs to the family Icteridae and is native to South America. It is commonly known as the yellow-winged blackbird. The term "Agelasticus" is derived from the Greek word "aggelos," meaning "messenger," and "elachys," meaning "slender," reflecting the bird's sleek and agile nature. The specific epithet "cyanopus" is a combination of the Greek words "kyaneos," meaning "blue," and "pous," meaning "foot," referring to its blue feet.
The yellow-winged blackbird is characterized by its medium-sized body, approximately 20 centimeters in length, with a noticeably long tail. It has a predominantly black plumage, with distinctive yellow wing markings that distinguish it from other blackbird species. The male possesses bright yellow wing shoulders and epaulets, while the female shows pale yellowish-brown markings on the wings. Both genders have a black bill and legs, contrasting with the blue coloration of their feet.
This avian species is predominantly found in marshes, grasslands, and wetlands across Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, and Paraguay. It is known for its melodious and varied songs, which often include trills, whistles, and metallic notes. The yellow-winged blackbird feeds primarily on insects, seeds, grains, and small fruits. It is known to engage in communal nesting, where several pairs build their nests in dense patches of vegetation.
Due to habitat loss and degradation caused by agricultural expansion and human activity, the yellow-winged blackbird is considered a species of least concern according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. However, continued monitoring and conservation efforts are
