The black-naped oriole is a passerine bird in the oriole family that is found in many parts of Asia. There are several distinctive populations within the wide distribution range of this species and in the past the slender-billed oriole was included as a subspecies. Unlike the Indian golden oriole which only has a short and narrow eye-stripe, the black-naped oriole has the stripe broadening and joining at the back of the neck. Males and females are very similar although the wing lining of the female is more greenish. The bill is pink and is stouter than in the golden oriole.
Region
South, Southeast, and East Asia
Typical Environment
Widespread in open forests, secondary growth, wooded farmlands, parks, and urban green spaces. It favors canopy and mid-story strata, often keeping to leafy cover. In coastal regions it also uses mangroves and casuarina fringes. Northern populations breed in more temperate woodlands and move south in winter. Island subspecies often occupy a range of habitats from plantations to garden trees.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The black-naped oriole is a bright yellow oriole with a bold black mask that widens and connects across the nape—its signature field mark. Its bill is pinkish and sturdier than that of the Indian golden oriole, helping separate the two species at a glance. It occupies a vast range across South, Southeast, and parts of East Asia, with several distinctive island and regional subspecies. Often heard before seen, its rich, fluting whistles carry through parks and woodland edges.
Male O. c. maculatus (Selangor, Malaysia)
O. c. maculatus (Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia)
Juvenile bird in Kolkata, West Bengal, India
Males differ geographically in extent of black and yellow on head, wing and tail
O. c. broderipii illustration (1850)
Temperament
alert and active
Flight Pattern
strong flier with swift, direct flight and shallow undulations
Social Behavior
Generally seen singly or in pairs during the breeding season; outside of breeding, small loose flocks may form while foraging. Pairs build a deep, suspended cup nest slung between forked branches high in the canopy. Both sexes incubate and feed the young. They are territorial around nest sites but tolerate nearby conspecifics in rich feeding areas.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Rich, fluty whistles with clear, mellow phrases that carry far; often a rising or descending series. Also gives harsh scolding calls when alarmed.
