The chestnut-headed oropendola is a New World tropical icterid bird. The scientific name of the species commemorates Johann Georg Wagler, who established Psarocolius, the oropendola genus.
Region
Central America to the Chocó bioregion
Typical Environment
Occurs mainly in humid lowland and foothill forests from southeastern Nicaragua through Costa Rica and Panama, with populations extending into the Chocó of western Colombia and locally into adjacent northwest Ecuador. It frequents forest edges, second growth, riverine forest, and shaded plantations such as cacao and banana. Colonies often choose tall emergent trees in semi-open forest or near clearings. It adapts to mosaic landscapes where forest patches remain, but relies on large trees for nesting.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The chestnut-headed oropendola is a social icterid that nests in colonies, weaving long, pendulous basket nests that can hang a meter or more below high canopy branches. Colonies are often placed near active wasp nests, which may deter predators. Males perform dramatic bowing displays while giving a liquid, gurgling song. As frequent fruit-eaters, they help disperse seeds in lowland tropical forests and agroforests.
Nests near El Valle de Antón, Panama
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong direct flight with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Highly colonial, with dozens of hanging nests clustered in a single tree. Males are polygynous and display conspicuously at the colony; females build the nests and handle most incubation and chick-rearing. Nests are often placed near stinging insect colonies for protection.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Males give a liquid, gurgling, and bubbling song with mechanical rattles during displays, often accompanied by bowing and wing-drooping. Contact calls are sharp, chattering notes used to keep flocks coordinated.
