Order Passeriformes, Family Icteridae
Golden-winged Cacique
Cacicus chrysopterus
A medium-sized icterid with striking black and yellow coloration, a pale yellowish or greenish-white bill, and piercing pale eyes. Known for acrobatic displays and social behavior.
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Plumage & appearance
Predominantly black body with bright golden-yellow patches on the wings and sometimes the rump. Sexes are similar, though females are slightly smaller and duller.
Key field marks
All-black body contrasting sharply with bright yellow wing patches, pale greenish-yellow or whitish bill, and pale eyes.
Size & weight
Length: approximately 23-25 cm (9-10 inches); Weight: around 50-70 grams.
Voice — call & song
A rich variety of melodious, fluty whistles, bubbling notes, and harsh chatters, often performed in duets or choruses.
Diet & foraging
Omnivorous, feeding on large insects, spiders, fruit, and nectar by probing into crevices and flowers.
Habitat
Subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, heavily degraded former forest, and woodland edges.
Migration & movement
Generally a sedentary resident, though some populations may undertake local seasonal movements.
Nesting & breeding
Builds a long, hanging woven pouch nest suspended from high tree branches, often near wasp nests for protection. Lays 2-3 eggs, with the female mainly incubating.
Similar species
Other caciques such as the Solitary Cacique or Yellow-rumped Cacique, but distinguished by the specific golden wing patches and smaller size.
Ecological significance
Acts as an important seed disperser and pollinator through flower probing, and plays a role in insect population control.
Conservation status
Least Concern, with a stable population trend.
Observation tips
Look and listen for their complex, bubbling songs in forest edges, clearings, and canopy levels. They often move in small, noisy family groups or mixed-species flocks.
Interesting facts
Caciques are renowned for their impressive vocal mimicry and intricate hanging nests, which are sometimes built close to active wasp colonies to deter predators.
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