Icteridae

Icteridae is a family of small- to medium-sized passerine birds commonly known as blackbirds, orioles, meadowlarks, grackles, and cowbirds. It belongs to the order Passeriformes and occurs primarily in the Americas, ranging from southern Canada to Argentina, with greatest diversity in tropical Central and South America. Members vary in size from about 12 to 28 centimeters in length. Plumage ranges from glossy black to patterned yellow, orange, or red markings, especially in males. Female plumage is generally duller.

Habitats are diverse, including open woodlands, grasslands, wetlands, agricultural areas, and urban settings. Most Icterids forage on the ground or in trees for insects, seeds, fruits, and nectar, and many form mixed-species or species-specific flocks outside the breeding season.

Reproduction varies by group. Many species build cup-shaped nests; a notable exception is the brood-parasitic cowbirds, which lay eggs in the nests of other birds and rely on hosts to rear their young. The genus Molothrus includes the well-known brown-headed cowbird and related species. Host species and parasitism rates vary regionally and can influence local bird populations.

Distribution and conservation status vary by species. Some populations are threatened by habitat loss, pollution, and changes in agricultural practices, while others remain widespread and abundant. Icterids are valued by birdwatchers for their vocalizations, bright plumage in many species, and seasonal movements, including migrations in temperate regions and resident populations in the tropics.