Some of the most recognizable birds with black plumage and red wing markings include the red-winged blackbird, tricolored blackbird, and red-shouldered blackbird. This article examines these species along with others that share similar color patterns, including those with red feathers on the wings, tail, or belly that may appear similar from a distance. We focus on their identification, distribution, and conservation status, highlighting key differences to aid birdwatchers and researchers.
These color patterns serve various ecological functions, such as communication, mate attraction, and territorial displays. Understanding these birds is not only valuable for identification but also essential for conservation efforts, as habitat loss and environmental changes threaten several of these species.
Red-winged blackbird (Agelaius phoeniceus)
- Description: Medium-sized bird, black plumage with red and yellow shoulder patches.
- Location: North America; found in wetlands, grasslands, and open fields.
- Conservation status: Least Concern, but local declines observed due to habitat loss.
The red-winged blackbird is a medium-sized black bird, widespread in North America, with shoulder patches that vary from red to dark orange and are bordered by yellow. Males display these markings prominently when perched or in flight, while females lack them and have a streaked brown appearance. The species is known for its distinctive “conk-la-ree” song, which is commonly heard in marshes, grasslands, and agricultural fields.
It inhabits wetlands, reed beds, and open grassy areas, forming large flocks outside the breeding season. During spring and summer, males defend their territories aggressively using vocalizations and visual displays. The species remains common, but habitat loss, pesticide use, and changes in wetland management have caused regional declines. Conservation efforts focus on preserving wetland habitats and monitoring long-term population trends.
Tricolored blackbird (Agelaius tricolor)
- Description: Medium-sized bird, black plumage with red and white shoulder patches.
- Location: Western North America; primarily found in California’s wetlands and agricultural fields.
- Conservation status: Endangered, with population declines due to habitat loss.
The tricolored blackbird is a medium-sized black bird, endemic to California, with shoulder patches that vary from red to dark orange and are bordered by white. It closely resembles the red-winged blackbird but is distinguished by its white (instead of yellow) epaulet border. Males display these markings prominently during flight and territorial displays. Females are brown and streaked, lacking the red coloration. The species produces a rapid, buzzy call that differs from the red-winged blackbird’s song.
This species is highly colonial, forming the largest breeding colonies of any North American land bird. It primarily inhabits freshwater marshes, but as wetlands have declined, populations have increasingly nested in agricultural fields. The tricolored blackbird has suffered severe declines due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and nest destruction during crop harvesting. Conservation efforts focus on wetland restoration, landowner cooperation, and colony monitoring to prevent further population decline.
Red-shouldered blackbird (Agelaius assimilis)
- Description: Medium-sized bird, black plumage with red shoulder patches.
- Location: Cuba; found in wetlands, marshes, and grasslands.
- Conservation status: Least Concern, but habitat loss remains a potential threat.
The red-shouldered blackbird is a medium-sized black bird, endemic to Cuba, with shoulder patches that vary from red to dark orange, bordered by yellow or sometimes whitish. Males display these markings prominently when perched or in flight. Females are usually uniformly black but can range from black to brownish, differing from the streaked brown females of the red-winged blackbird. This distinction, along with behavioral and vocal differences, contributed to its recognition as a separate species after being historically classified as a red-winged blackbird subspecies.
It inhabits freshwater wetlands, marshes, and grassy areas, where it forages in small flocks. Although currently classified as Least Concern by IUCN, habitat loss due to wetland drainage and agricultural expansion poses potential risks to its population. Conservation efforts focus on habitat preservation and continued monitoring to ensure long-term stability.
Scarlet-rumped cacique (Cacicus uropygialis)
- Description: Medium-sized bird, black plumage with a red or orange patch on the lower back and wings.
- Location: Central and South America; found in tropical forests.
- Conservation status: Least Concern, though habitat loss affects some populations.
The scarlet-rumped cacique is a medium-sized black bird, widespread in Central and South America, with a red or orange patch on the lower back that extends onto the wings. This coloration is most visible when the bird is in flight. It has a pale, pointed bill and striking blue eyes. The species is often mistaken for the closely related yellow-rumped cacique (Cacicus cela), but the latter has a yellow rather than red patch. The scarlet-rumped cacique produces a variety of whistles and chattering calls, which it uses for communication within its colonies.
This species inhabits humid lowland and foothill forests, often near rivers and forest edges. It is a colonial nester, weaving hanging nests in large groups high in the canopy. While it remains widespread, deforestation and habitat fragmentation have led to localized declines. Conservation efforts focus on protecting tropical forest habitats and monitoring population trends to ensure long-term stability.
Red-winged starling (Onychognathus morio)
- Description: Large bird, glossy black plumage with red-orange flight feathers.
- Location: Sub-Saharan Africa; found in rocky cliffs, urban areas, and savannas.
- Conservation status: Least Concern, with stable populations.
The red-winged starling is a large, glossy black bird, widespread in sub-Saharan Africa, with red-orange flight feathers that are most visible in flight. Its plumage may show a bluish sheen depending on the angle of light. Males and females are similar in appearance, though females may have a slightly duller plumage and a grayish wash on the head. Unlike other blackbirds with red markings, this species’ coloration is not restricted to the shoulders but is revealed primarily when the wings are spread. Its call is a series of loud whistles and chattering sounds, often heard in rocky landscapes and urban settings.
This species inhabits cliffs, gorges, and rocky outcrops but has adapted well to human-altered environments, commonly nesting on buildings and other structures. It feeds on a varied diet, including fruits, insects, and small vertebrates. The red-winged starling remains widespread and is not currently threatened, but localized declines can occur due to habitat changes and competition for nesting sites.
Pesquet’s parrot (Psittrichas fulgidus)
- Description: Large bird, black plumage with striking red wing feathers.
- Location: New Guinea; found in tropical rainforests.
- Conservation status: Vulnerable, threatened by habitat loss and hunting.
Pesquet’s parrot, sometimes informally called the Dracula parrot, is a large, predominantly black parrot with bright red wing feathers, endemic to the rainforests of New Guinea. The red markings are visible both at rest and in flight, making it one of the most striking parrots in the region. Unlike most parrots, it has a bare, featherless face, an adaptation that helps keep it clean while feeding on sticky fruits. Its calls are deep and rasping, unlike the typical high-pitched vocalizations of many parrots.
This species is found in lowland and montane rainforests, where it feeds almost exclusively on figs and soft fruits. Due to its unique appearance, it has been heavily hunted for its feathers, which are used in traditional ceremonial attire. Along with habitat destruction, this has led to a declining population, and the species is currently classified as Vulnerable. Conservation efforts focus on protecting forest habitats and reducing hunting pressure.
Long-tailed widowbird (Euplectes progne)
- Description: Medium-sized bird, black plumage with red shoulder patches and an elongated tail in breeding males.
- Location: Southern Africa; found in grasslands and wetlands.
- Conservation status: Least Concern, though habitat loss affects some populations.
The long-tailed widowbird is a medium-sized black bird, widespread in southern Africa, with red shoulder patches that are most visible in flight. Breeding males are particularly distinctive due to their exceptionally long, flowing tail feathers, which can be more than twice their body length. The red markings on the wings contrast sharply with their black plumage, similar to the red-winged blackbird. Non-breeding males and females have a more subdued, brownish appearance, lacking the bright red coloration.
This species inhabits grasslands, wetlands, and savannas, where males perform elaborate aerial displays to attract females, fluttering above their territories with their long tails spread wide. While it remains common, the long-tailed widowbird faces threats from habitat destruction and changes in land use. Conservation efforts focus on preserving grassland habitats to ensure stable populations.
Red-shouldered tanager (Tachyphonus phoenicius)
- Description: Small bird, black plumage with a small red or orange shoulder patch in males.
- Location: South America; found in forests, savannas, and shrublands.
- Conservation status: Least Concern, though habitat loss may impact some populations.
The red-shouldered tanager is a small black bird, widespread in parts of South America, with a small red or orange shoulder patch in males. This marking is often subtle and may be almost unnoticeable in some individuals, especially when the wings are folded. Females, however, are olive-brown and lack the red markings, making them more difficult to identify. The species is known for its clear, sharp calls and active foraging behavior, often seen moving through low vegetation in search of insects and fruit.
This species inhabits forests, savannas, and shrubby areas, particularly in regions with mixed woodland and open spaces. It is typically observed foraging alone or in pairs rather than in large flocks. Although currently classified as Least Concern, habitat destruction and deforestation could pose future risks to some populations. Conservation efforts focus on maintaining natural habitats and monitoring population trends.
Other dark-plumage birds with red wing/tail feathers
Some birds have dark plumage with red or orange markings, but they do not fully match the criteria of black birds with red/orange wings. These species may still cause confusion among birdwatchers.
The red-winged laughingthrush (Trochalopteron formosum) is a medium-sized bird from Southeast Asia, recognized by its red wing coverts and tail. Unlike true black birds, its body is typically brown or olive, though some individuals may appear darker. It is commonly found in dense forests and bamboo groves, where it moves in small flocks. This species is known for its melodious calls and secretive behavior, making it more often heard than seen.
The red-tailed black cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus banksii) is a large, dark-feathered parrot from Australia, best recognized by its red tail markings rather than wing coloration. Males display bright red panels on the tail feathers, visible when in flight or when fanned out, while females lack these markings and have yellowish speckling on the head, neck, and wings. This species inhabits woodlands, savannas, and eucalyptus forests, feeding on seeds and nuts. It is not currently threatened but faces localized declines due to habitat loss.
The red-bellied grackle (Hypopyrrhus pyrohypogaster) is a medium-sized blackbird endemic to Colombia, distinguished by its bright red belly and undertail coverts. Though the red is not on the wings, it creates a striking contrast with its otherwise glossy black plumage. It inhabits montane forests, foraging in small groups while producing a variety of loud calls. This species is classified as vulnerable, primarily due to deforestation and habitat fragmentation in its restricted range.
The black redstart (Phoenicurus ochruros) is a small passerine found in Europe, Asia, and North Africa, often inhabiting rocky areas and urban landscapes. Males of some subspecies have dark gray to black plumage with a contrasting orange-red tail, though the red does not extend to the wings. Females and juveniles are duller in color, lacking the strong contrast seen in males. This species is highly adaptable, often seen perching on buildings or foraging on the ground for insects.
Are red wings a sign of aggression?
Many birds with red or orange wing markings are known for their bold and territorial behavior, but does the color itself indicate aggression? While red is often associated with dominance and warning signals in nature, aggression in birds is primarily linked to territorial defense, breeding competition, and survival strategies rather than plumage coloration alone.
Some red-winged birds, like the red-winged blackbird, are highly aggressive, especially during the breeding season. Males fiercely defend their territories by dive-bombing intruders, including larger birds, mammals, and even humans. The tricolored blackbird also displays defensive behavior, though it nests in colonies rather than isolated territories. Other species, such as the scarlet-rumped cacique, are protective of their nesting areas but not as confrontational. The long-tailed widowbird is not known for direct aggression, but males defend their territories through elaborate flight displays to attract mates and deter rivals.
In contrast, some red-winged birds show little aggression. The Pesquet’s parrot, despite its striking black-and-red coloration, is a passive frugivore that does not engage in territorial disputes. The red-winged starling is mostly social, often gathering in large flocks rather than defending specific territories. The red-shouldered tanager, though similar in appearance to some blackbirds, is non-aggressive, foraging alone or in pairs with minimal territorial behavior. These examples highlight that red wing markings do not necessarily correlate with aggression.
While red plumage can serve as a visual signal in mating displays or territorial defense, aggression in birds is largely shaped by breeding behaviors and environmental pressures. Some of the most territorial species, like the red-winged blackbird, have red wings, but their behavior is an evolutionary adaptation rather than a direct result of their coloration. Not all red-winged birds are aggressive, making it clear that behavioral traits, not feather color, determine territoriality.
Furthering identification and conservation efforts
Black birds with red or orange wings are found in a variety of regions and habitats, from wetlands and forests to open savannas. While some species are well-known and widely distributed, others are more elusive and require careful observation to identify. Understanding their distinguishing features, behaviors, and ecological roles helps improve birdwatching accuracy and supports conservation efforts.
This list highlights some of the most distinctive species, but bird diversity is vast, and new observations can refine our understanding. If you know of other birds that fit this description, sharing your observations can help expand identification resources and assist fellow birdwatchers in recognizing these striking species. Documenting and discussing these birds contributes to a broader knowledge base that benefits both enthusiasts and conservationists.