Black-cowled Oriole

The black-cowled oriole, a medium-sized passerine, is a striking bird with a predominantly black plumage accented by vivid yellow patches. Males are generally larger than females, with a weight averaging around 32.5 grams. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism, particularly in the northern part of its range, where males and females differ in plumage. In contrast, in the southern range, both sexes have similar plumage.

Identification Tips

Adult males are characterized by their black coloration with bright yellow on the belly, shoulder, rump, wing lining, and crissum. Females vary geographically, with some resembling males and others having olive-yellow upperparts and black facial markings. The bill is slender and slightly decurved, and both sexes have blue-gray legs and feet, and brown eyes.

Habitat

The black-cowled oriole inhabits humid or semi-humid forests, clearings, forest edges, plantations, semi-open areas with scattered trees and bushes, and gardens. It is often found along waterways in forested areas and is associated with palms in open woodlands and plantations.

Distribution

This species is common and widespread in the Caribbean lowlands and foothills, ranging from southern Mexico to western Panama. It is typically found at elevations up to 500 meters but can occur up to 1,300 meters.

Behaviour

The black-cowled oriole is a resident bird, moving in pairs or small groups and often joining mixed-species flocks. It roosts in tall grass and is known to mix with other oriole species.

Song & calls

The song is a complex series of soft, whistled notes and harsher chattering, described as clear, metallic, slurred, and mellow. Calls include a scratchy weet, a nasal deep, and a sharper beehk, among others. When alarmed, it emits a series of sharp cherp and chep notes.

Breeding

Believed to be monogamous, the black-cowled oriole builds a shallow, pendent nest typically suspended from the midrib of a large-leafed plant. Both parents are involved in defending the nest, brooding, and feeding the young.

Similar Species

The juvenile black-cowled oriole can be confused with the yellow-tailed oriole and the juvenile orchard oriole but can be distinguished by its completely black tail and lack of wing bars. It is also similar to the black-vented oriole, which is larger and has a black crissum.

Diet and Feeding

The diet consists of arthropods, fruits, and nectar. The oriole forages at mid-level, often in palms, and takes fruits from various trees and nectar from flowers of epiphytes and tree species, acting as a pollinator.

Conservation status

The black-cowled oriole is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a large range and stable population. It is estimated to number between 50,000 to 499,000 individuals. However, it is sometimes captured for the pet trade due to its attractive colors. It serves as prey for several species and has been documented as a carrier of the Venezuelan equine encephalomyelitis virus.