Yellow Oriole

The Yellow Oriole, Icterus nigrogularis, is a vibrant passerine bird belonging to the Icteridae family. This species is adorned with a predominantly yellow plumage, as its name aptly suggests.

Identification Tips

Adult males are characterized by a striking black eye mask and a thin black line on the throat. Their tails and wings are black, with a notable white wing bar and white feather edging. Females share a similar appearance but are slightly less vivid, while juveniles present an olive-tinged yellow back and lack the black facial markings.

Habitat

The Yellow Oriole favors open woodlands, scrublands, and gardens, where it can be seen flitting among the foliage.

Distribution

This species is native to northern South America, with its range extending across Colombia, Venezuela, Trinidad, the Guianas, and parts of northern Brazil, including northern Roraima state and eastern Amapá.

Behaviour

The Yellow Oriole is known for its adeptness in constructing a remarkable hanging basket nest, which dangles from the end of a branch, typically measuring about 40 centimeters in length.

Song & Calls

The oriole's song is a delightful, melodious fluting accompanied by buzzing tones. Its repertoire of calls includes a cat-like whine and various chattering sounds.

Breeding

During the breeding season, the Yellow Oriole lays a clutch of three pale green or grey eggs, which are then incubated in the carefully crafted hanging nest.

Similar Species

While there are four subspecies of the Yellow Oriole, three are island-restricted and exhibit differences in body and bill size, as well as subtle variations in plumage.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Yellow Oriole is quite diverse, consisting mainly of large insects. However, it also partakes in nectar and enjoys a variety of fruits such as berries, cherries, mangoes, and bananas.

Conservation status

The Yellow Oriole is currently classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating a stable population without immediate threats to its survival.