The common iora is a small passerine bird found across the tropical Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, with populations showing plumage variations, some of which are designated as subspecies. A species found in scrub and forest, it is easily detected from its loud whistles and the bright colours. During the breeding season, males display by fluffing up their feathers and spiral in the air appearing like a green, black, yellow, and white ball.
Region
South and Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs widely from the Indian subcontinent through Myanmar, Thailand, the Malay Peninsula and parts of Indonesia. Prefers open woodland, scrub, forest edges, secondary growth, orchards, gardens, and mangroves. Often found in semi-open habitats with scattered trees and dense shrub layers. Tolerant of human-altered landscapes so long as some tree cover remains.
Altitude Range
0–1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Common ioras are bright, active canopy gleaners that often betray their presence with clear, whistled phrases. Males perform an eye-catching breeding display, puffing up and spiraling through the air like a yellow-green ball. Several subspecies show notable plumage variation across South and Southeast Asia. They readily use gardens and orchards where they help control insect populations.
A. t. multicolor: female in Satchari National Park, Bangladesh
Common Iora, Male, Pune
A. t. multicolor: male in Hyderabad, India
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically seen in pairs or small family groups, and often joins mixed-species flocks while foraging. The male’s courtship display involves fluffing plumage and spiraling in short flights near the canopy. Nests are neat cup structures placed in forked branches and bound with spider silk. Both parents feed the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of clear, whistled notes and short phrases that can be repeated and varied. Calls include sharp, ringing whistles used to maintain contact. Males often vocalize during aerial display flights.
