The black-winged oriole is a species of bird in the family Oriolidae. It is found in Africa from Sierra Leone and Liberia to southern South Sudan, western Uganda, central Democratic Republic of Congo and north-western Angola.
Region
West and Central Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs from Sierra Leone and Liberia east through southern South Sudan and western Uganda, and south into central Democratic Republic of the Congo and north-western Angola. It inhabits lowland and submontane moist forests, forest edges, gallery forests, and well-wooded secondary growth. The species frequently uses the upper canopy but also forages in the mid-story, especially along edges and in clearings. It may visit plantations and fruiting trees near villages where forest persists nearby.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1700 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A canopy-dwelling oriole of West and Central African forests, it is often heard before it is seen thanks to its mellow, fluting whistles. Both sexes are similar, with bright yellow bodies and striking black wings. It adapts well to secondary growth and forest edges, which likely helps keep its populations stable.
Temperament
shy and canopy-oriented
Flight Pattern
strong flier with direct, undulating flight
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups within the canopy. Builds a neat, suspended cup nest high in trees, woven from plant fibers and placed at the fork of a slender branch. Likely monogamous, with both adults participating in feeding the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of mellow, fluty whistles and rich, liquid phrases that carry through the forest. Calls include sharp chacks and harsher notes used for contact or alarm.
Plumage
Bright yellow body with contrasting black wings and tail; wings often show narrow white edges or small wing bars. Plumage is smooth and glossy, giving a clean, high-contrast appearance in the canopy.
Diet
Takes a mixed diet of fruits and arthropods, commonly feeding on figs, berries, and other soft fruits. Gleans caterpillars, beetles, and other insects from leaves and branches, and may sally briefly to catch flying prey. Occasionally probes blossoms or takes nectar when available.
Preferred Environment
Forages mainly in the upper canopy and mid-story of mature forest and well-wooded secondary growth. Frequently visits fruiting trees along forest edges and in clearings, and sometimes enters agroforestry systems with tall trees.
