Yellow-headed Blackbird (Xanthocephalus xanthocephalus), a Special Concern species in Wisconsin, is a large songbird. Males have distinguishable bright yellow heads, necks, and breasts. Their bodies are black with a white wing patch that is partially visible while perched. Females have yellow faces and necks, though the body is dull brown. The species is most prevalent in southeastern Wisconsin but breeds throughout the state. It prefers emergent aquatic habitats where cattails, reeds, and bulrushes are present, such as deep-water marshes and prairie wetlands. Nests are constructed above water by weaving various grasses, reeds, and cattails together. Alteration of wetland habitats for agriculture or urban development threatens the viability of the species. The recommended avoidance period is May 15 - July 15.
