The black oriole is a species of bird in the family Oriolidae. It is endemic to the island of Borneo. One of the least known of the orioles, its distribution range is restricted to Sarawak in Borneo. Along with the black-and-crimson, maroon, and silver orioles, it belongs to a clade of red and black orioles. The binomial name is after Charles Hose who collected the first specimen of the species on Mount Dulit.
Region
Borneo, Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Found in submontane and montane evergreen forests, including mossy forest and forested ridgelines. It keeps to the mid-story and canopy, using mature trees for foraging and nesting. The species may visit forest edges and fruiting trees but generally favors intact, closed-canopy habitat. It is sensitive to logging and fragmentation, which reduce suitable canopy structure.
Altitude Range
700–1700 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The black oriole is a scarce, little-known oriole confined to the montane hills of northern Borneo, especially Sarawak. It is named for Charles Hose, who collected the first specimen on Mount Dulit. Its glossy black plumage and coral-red bill make it distinctive, yet it is often overlooked as it forages quietly in the canopy.
Temperament
solitary and inconspicuous
Flight Pattern
strong, direct flight with rapid wingbeats between canopy gaps
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, occasionally joining mixed-species flocks in the canopy. It forages deliberately among foliage and epiphytes. Like other orioles, it weaves a deep cup nest suspended from a forked branch high in the canopy.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of mellow, fluty whistles interspersed with softer chattering notes. Calls are clear but infrequent, making the species easy to miss in dense canopy.
