Endangered & Iconic: Puerto Rico’s Yellow-shouldered Blackbird Joins Birdorable

Puerto Rico Week continues today with another new endemic bird added to Birdorable: the Yellow-shouldered Blackbird!

The Yellow-shouldered Blackbird is known locally as mariquita de Puerto Rico. or just mariquita.  Across South America, mariquita refers to a ladybug; in Caribbean countries its the name of a fish. Puerto Ricans may also refer to the bird as Capitán.  This striking blackbird gets its common English name from the bright yellow patches on its shoulders, which stand out against its otherwise glossy black plumage. Males and females look similar, though males are slightly larger, and tend to be more vocal.

The Yellow-shouldered Blackbird is primarily found along Puerto Rico’s southwest coast, especially in mangrove forests, coastal dry forests, and nearby open areas. While we tried to find this species on a couple of different outings during our Puerto Rico trip, this was one that we unfortunately missed. 

Despite its striking appearance and local nickname, the Yellow-shouldered Blackbird is not as well-known internationally as some other Puerto Rican birds, partly because it is critically endangered. Its population has declined drastically due to habitat loss, urban development, and one particularly sneaky threat: the Shiny Cowbird.

Shiny Cowbirds, like Brown-headed Cowbirds, are nest parasites. They lay their eggs in the nests of other birds—including Yellow-shouldered Blackbirds—and leave the host parents to raise their chicks. This behavior often leads to the failure of the blackbird’s own offspring, contributing to the population decline. In response, scientists and conservationists in Puerto Rico have worked hard to manage cowbird populations, protect blackbird nesting sites, and raise awareness about the species.

One of the most important conservation programs is the Yellow-shouldered Blackbird Recovery Plan, which includes habitat restoration, nest monitoring, and cowbird control. Thanks to these efforts, the population has stabilized in some areas, though the species remains at risk and conservation work continues to be crucial.

Yellow-shouldered Blackbirds are social and vocal, often forming small groups and communicating with a variety of calls. They feed mostly on insects, fruits, and nectar, and can sometimes be seen foraging in open fields or perched in mangrove branches. During breeding season, they build cup-shaped nests in trees or shrubs, usually near water, and may nest in loose colonies.

We're proud to bring this unique bird into the Birdorable lineup! Our Birdorable Yellow-shouldered Blackbird features the characteristic black body and bold yellow shoulder patch in our signature cute style. It’s a great way to celebrate this special species and help raise awareness about its conservation.

Be sure to check out our Birdorable shop for gifts and gear featuring the Yellow-shouldered Blackbird—perfect for bird fans, conservation supporters, and anyone who loves Puerto Rico’s incredible biodiversity. And stay tuned as we continue Puerto Rico Week, spotlighting more amazing endemic birds and the habitats that make the island such a special place for birdwatching and wildlife.