The Bahama oriole is a species of songbird in the New World blackbird family Icteridae. It is endemic to the Bahamas, and listed as endangered by the IUCN Red List.
Region
Caribbean
Typical Environment
Today the species is restricted to Andros Island, where it uses a mosaic of Caribbean pine forests, broadleaf coppice, coastal scrub, and human-modified areas with palms. It forages from midstory to canopy, especially in palm crowns and along forest edges. Nesting often occurs in the skirts of coconut palms, but native thatch palms may also be used. Local extirpation from Abaco underscores its dependence on intact habitat and suitable nesting trees.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 60 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Bahama oriole is a striking black-and-yellow icterid now confined to Andros Island after disappearing from Abaco. It frequently nests in coconut palms, which has made it vulnerable where those trees are lost to disease. Conservation efforts focus on protecting remaining habitat, encouraging nesting in native palms, and controlling nest predators and brood parasites. It is listed as Endangered due to its very small, localized population.
Temperament
wary and territorial
Flight Pattern
direct flight with short, rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs, maintaining territories during the breeding season. Pairs build pendant nests in palm crowns, often in coconut palms; clutches typically contain 2–4 eggs. Both parents feed the young and defend the nest vigorously.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of clear, fluty whistles and rich, liquid phrases delivered from exposed perches. Calls include sharp chacks and raspy scolds when alarmed.
Plumage
Glossy black head, back, wings, and tail contrasting with bright yellow on the lower belly and rump; small yellow shoulder epaulets. Juveniles are duller with more olive-yellow tones and less glossy black.
Diet
Feeds primarily on insects and other arthropods gleaned from foliage, palm fronds, and bark. Also consumes fruit, berries, and nectar when available. Occasionally takes small lizards or other small prey and may visit flowering trees.
Preferred Environment
Forages in palm groves, edges of pine forest and coppice, and around settlements with ornamental palms. Often searches in the crowns of palms and along sunlit edges where prey is abundant.
