Montezuma Oropendola
NameMontezuma Oropendola
Common NameMontezuma Oropendola
Scientific NamePsarocolius montezuma
FamilyIcteridae
Wingspan (cm)65
Length (cm)45
Weight (g)375
Plumage DetailsThe body is primarily rich chestnut-brown, contrasting with a black head, neck, and upper back. The bill is large, conical, and bright orange with a black tip. A distinctive white patch is present on the cheek, bordered by bare pinkish skin below the eye. The outer tail feathers are bright yellow, while the central tail feathers are black.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its complex and distinctive vocalizations, which include a series of gurgling, bubbling, and liquid notes, often ending with a loud "clack" or "gwaa".
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the tropical lowlands of Central America, from southeastern Mexico through Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, to central Panama.
Identifying Featureslarge size, chestnut body, black head, bright orange bill with black tip, white cheek patch, yellow outer tail feathers, pendulous nests
Description
This large, striking tropical bird is known for its rich chestnut body, black head, and bright yellow outer tail feathers. It often nests in large colonies, building long, pendulous woven nests, and produces distinctive gurgling calls.
