The black-and-crimson oriole is a species of bird in the family Oriolidae.
Region
Sundaland (Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Borneo)
Typical Environment
This species inhabits primary and well-structured secondary evergreen forests, favoring mature lowland and hill dipterocarp forest as well as lower montane forest. It spends most of its time in the mid to upper canopy, moving through fruiting trees and tangles. It occasionally visits forest edges and ridges but is less common in highly degraded habitats. Local presence is tied to availability of fruiting trees and intact canopy continuity.
Altitude Range
300–2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The black-and-crimson oriole is an Old World oriole of the Sundaic rainforests, where its rich fluty whistles often carry through the canopy. It is sometimes confused with the maroon oriole but is darker, with sharper black-and-crimson contrast. By eating figs and other fruits, it helps disperse seeds and supports forest regeneration. It typically keeps to mid- and upper-level forest strata and can be surprisingly elusive despite its striking colors.
Temperament
shy and canopy-dwelling
Flight Pattern
strong flier with swift, direct bursts between canopy gaps
Social Behavior
Often seen singly or in pairs, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks following fruiting trees. Breeding pairs build a neat pendant cup nest suspended from a forked branch high in the canopy. Both parents likely contribute to feeding nestlings, as in other orioles.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song consists of mellow, fluty whistles delivered in short phrases, often repeated from concealed perches. Calls include soft, liquid notes and harsher scolds when alarmed.
