Golden Monarch
NameGolden Monarch
Common NameBlack-naped Oriole
Scientific NameOriolus chinensis
FamilyOriolidae
Wingspan (cm)26
Length (cm)25
Weight (g)80
Plumage DetailsAdult males display brilliant golden-yellow body plumage. A broad black stripe extends from the lores through the eye to the nape, forming a distinct mask or bib. The wings and tail are black, with the tail often having yellow tips. The bill is dark in the depicted individual, though typically pinkish-red in many subspecies.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its rich, fluty, and melodious whistling calls, often described as 'pee-lo' or 'oriole'. They also produce harsher alarm calls.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across much of Asia, including India, Southeast Asia, China, and the Philippines. It is a migratory species in parts of its range.
Identifying FeaturesBright golden-yellow body plumage, Black nape and eye-stripe forming a mask/bib, Black wings and tail, Dark bill (as seen in image), Melodious whistling calls
Description
This striking medium-sized passerine is characterized by its brilliant golden-yellow plumage contrasted with a prominent black mask. It is an arboreal species, often found in the canopy of trees, known for its melodious whistling calls.
