Eastern Brazil: Pernambuco and Alagoas; and Minas Gerais.
Rarity Status
Currently this species is not classified as a rarity in this country OR information has not been updated.
Population
Estimated population is 1,000 - 2,499 (2010) and decreasing.
Status EN
Habitat destruction and degradation due to conversion to agriculture and boord-parasitism by Shiny Cowbird (Molothrus bonariensis), are the main threats.
For more information see BirdLife International Species Factsheet.
Food
Fruit, insects and possibly nectar taken from the flowers of sugar cane.
Voice
Harsh, unpleasant, repeated buzzy notes and chatters. Also loud and rough 'check check' notes reported. Call is a loud, nasal 'tuí-lit'.
Forbes's Blackbird (Anumara forbesi) [XC189705]
by Glauco Alves Pereira from Rio Corrente Grande, Virgin\u00f3polis, Minas Gerais, Brazil (call)
Forbes's Blackbird (Anumara forbesi) [XC16839]
by Sidnei de Melo Dantas from Quebrangulo, Alagoas, Brazil (call)
Subspecies
No subspecies.
Taxonomic status of this species was for a long time uncertain. Was sometimes considered a rare hybrid between Chopi Blackbird (Gnorimopsar chopi) and Chestnut-capped Blackbird (Chrysomus ruficapillus). Placed in present genus because bill shape similar to that of Austral Blackbird (Curaeus curaeus), but no DNA data available. General behaviour and voice suggest possible relationship with Macroagelaius, Lampropsar, Gymnomystax and Hypopyrrhus.
Similar Species
Chopi Blackbird (Gnorimopsar chopi) is glossier and shows shorter, grooved bill with distinctive curve to rounded culmen.
References
See References.
BirdLife International Species Factsheet