General Description: Yellow-headed Blackbirds (Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus) are fairly large blackbirds that are usually found around ponds and marshes. Males are jet black overall with a bright yellow head and breast, and a white patch on the wing. Females are similar, but they have some streaking on the belly, and the yellow is dull and less extensive.

Yellow-headed Blackbirds are gregarious and often are found in flocks.

Favored Habitat: Marshes with cattails and bulrushes.

Where to Find: Neighborhood ponds, parks (e.g., Lorenzi Park and Sunset Park), and the Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve with emergent vegetation. To find them in more natural habitat, visit the Pahranagat Valley or the Overton Wildlife Management Area.

Comments: Yellow-headed Blackbirds nest in cattails and bulrushes around ponds.