The Yellow-Rumped Cacique. Photography & Text by Keith R WahlNoisy songbirds of the Rainforest The Yellow-Rumped Cacique (Psarocolius wagleri) is a medium-sized songbird found in the tropical rainforests of South America. It is a member of the family of caciques, which are known for their bright plumage and noisy calls. The Yellow-Rumped Cacique is about 18 inches long and weighs about 6 ounces. It has a black head and neck, with a yellow to orange rump and belly. The wings and tail are green, with some red and blue feathers. The bill is black and the legs are gray. Yellow-Rumped Caciques are social birds and live in flocks of up to 30 individuals. They are noisy birds and their calls can be heard for long distances. They are also very intelligent birds and have been known to mimic human speech. The Yellow-Rumped Cacique is an important part of the rainforest ecosystem. It helps to disperse seeds and pollinate plants. It is also preyed upon by snakes, hawks, and owls.
Note: This is written with the help of my high school-aged son, Jonathan, who spends his summers (and other times of the year) working with the campers in Roger Williams Park Zoo "ZooCamp" program. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter See more about Photopoetry on my Substack: Keith's Substack © Keith R Wahl, Made From RI/Made From RI Gallery, 2023. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Keith R Wahl and Made From RI/Made From RI Gallery with appropriate and specific direction to the original.
The Yellow-Rumped Cacique is not considered to be endangered, but its population is declining due to habitat loss and hunting. The Roger Williams Park Zoo is committed to helping to conserve this species and other rainforest animals. The Yellow-Rumped Caciques at Roger Williams Park Zoo live in the Faces of the Rainforest exhibit. This exhibit is home to a variety of other rainforest animals, including howler monkeys, giant anteaters, and Chilean flamingos. The Yellow-Rumped Caciques can be seen flying through the trees, foraging for food, and interacting with other members of their flock.
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter See more about Photopoetry on my Substack: Keith's Substack © Keith R Wahl, Made From RI/Made From RI Gallery, 2023. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Keith R Wahl and Made From RI/Made From RI Gallery with appropriate and specific direction to the original.
Keywords:
Bird,
Keith R Wahl,
Made From RI Gallery,
Photography,
Rhode Island,
Roger Williams Park Zoo,
storytelling,
Yellow-Rumped Cacique
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