Ventriloquial Oriole
NameVentriloquial Oriole
Common NameBlack-hooded Oriole
Scientific NameOriolus xanthornus
FamilyOriolidae
Wingspan (cm)23.5
Length (cm)24
Weight (g)72.5
Plumage DetailsAdults are primarily bright yellow with a solid black head, throat, and upper breast forming a 'hood'. Wings are black with yellow edgings, and the tail is black with yellow tips. The bill is pinkish-red. Juveniles and some females have a duller, streaked or mottled blackish hood and streaked/barred yellow underparts, as seen in the image.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a variety of melodious, fluty whistles, often described as 'oriole-like'. Calls can include clear, ringing 'whee-ooo' or 'pee-lo' notes, sometimes with a ventriloquial quality, making the source of the sound difficult to pinpoint.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across tropical southern Asia, from India and Sri Lanka east to Indonesia, including parts of Southeast Asia.
Identifying FeaturesBlack head and throat (hood-like), Bright yellow body plumage (especially underparts), Reddish-pink bill, Barred or streaked underparts in juveniles/females, Melodious, fluty calls
Description
This medium-sized passerine is characterized by its bright yellow plumage and a distinctive black head. Juveniles and females, like the one pictured, often display streaked or barred underparts. It is an arboreal species, typically found foraging in the canopy for insects and fruits.
