Western Black-headed Oriole
NameWestern Black-headed Oriole
Common NameWestern Black-headed Oriole
Scientific NameOriolus brachyrhynchus
FamilyOriolidae
Wingspan (cm)30
Length (cm)21
Weight (g)50
Plumage DetailsAdults feature a glossy black head, neck, and upper breast, contrasting sharply with a bright golden-yellow body. The wings are dark grey to blackish with a prominent white patch on the primaries, and the tail is yellow with black central feathers. The bill is a distinctive bright red.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations consist of clear, fluty, whistling notes, often described as melodious and somewhat melancholic, sometimes interspersed with harsher chattering calls.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThis species is found across West and Central Africa, ranging from Sierra Leone eastward through countries like Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, and Gabon, extending into parts of Uganda and Angola.
Identifying Featuresglossy black head, bright golden-yellow body, bright red bill, prominent white patch on dark wings
Description
The Western Black-headed Oriole is a striking medium-sized passerine bird known for its vibrant plumage. It typically inhabits the canopy of tropical forests, where it forages for insects and fruits, often moving solitarily or in pairs.
