Altamira Oriole

The Altamira oriole, Icterus gularis, is a strikingly vibrant bird, the largest of its genus, measuring approximately 25 cm in length and weighing around 56 g. Its plumage is a dazzling display of orange or yellowish-orange on the underside, contrasting sharply with its black back, mandible, throat, and elongated tail. The wings are also black, but with a distinctive white fringe on the remiges and rectrices, creating a single white wing bar and white wing spots when the wings are folded. Secondary coverts present as orange epaulets, adding to the bird's colorful allure.

Identification Tips

When identifying the Altamira oriole, look for the combination of its large size, black and orange plumage, and the unique pattern of white and black on the wings. The black mandible and throat are key features, as well as the long black tail. Immature birds can be recognized by their olive backs and duller yellow heads and bodies, while first-year birds resemble adults but with olive backs and yellow-olive tails.

Habitat

The Altamira oriole is found in subtropical lowlands, favoring open woodlands. It is also known to inhabit semi-arid areas with scattered trees and open riparian woodlands.

Distribution

This bird is widespread along the Mexican Gulf Coast, northern Central America, the Pacific coast, and inland areas. It has expanded its range to southern Texas since 1939.

Behaviour

Altamira orioles are permanent residents of their range and do not exhibit migratory behavior. They are sexually monomorphic, meaning both males and females share the same elaborate coloration. The species is known for its solitary nesting habits, with nests spaced a quarter kilometer apart on average. During the breeding season, these birds show little aggression and are not known to be territorial.

Song & Calls

The Altamira oriole's song is a series of clear, slow musical whistles, while its calls include harsh whistles, rasping chatter, and nasal "ike" sounds.

Breeding

Breeding season in Texas occurs from late April to late July. The nest is a small pouch composed of various natural materials such as moss, grass, and palm fibers, and is often lined with feathers. Nests can also be found hanging from telephone wires. It is presumed that the female constructs the nest, though the duration of nest-building is unknown. Clutches typically consist of 4–6 eggs, with both parents involved in feeding and caring for the nestlings.

Diet and Feeding

The Altamira oriole is a forage gleaner, searching for food from the treetops to the near-ground bottom of the tree. Its diet is composed of fruit, including small fruits, hackberries, and figs, as well as insects such as grasshoppers, crickets, and caterpillars.

Conservation status

The Altamira oriole is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating that it is not at immediate risk of population decline or extinction.