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Overview
Grey-collared oriole

Grey-collared oriole

Wikipedia

The grey-collared oriole, or Seram oriole, is a species of bird in the family Oriolidae. It is endemic to Seram.

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Distribution

Region

Maluku Islands

Typical Environment

This oriole is restricted to Seram, where it occupies primary evergreen forest, secondary woodland, and forest edge. It is most often encountered in the mid-story to canopy and occasionally in tall coastal or riverine trees. It can wander into lightly disturbed habitats, including plantations and village groves near forest. Its tolerance of edge habitats allows it to persist outside deep interior forest, though extensive deforestation could still impact local numbers.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 1500 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size22–26 cm
Wing Span30–35 cm
Male Weight0.07 kg
Female Weight0.065 kg
Life Expectancy9 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 2/5

Useful to know

Also called the Seram oriole, this species is confined to Seram Island in Indonesia’s Maluku archipelago. It frequents forest canopies where its mellow, fluting whistles often reveal its presence before the bird is seen. The subtle gray collar across the breast helps distinguish it from other regional orioles. It adapts to secondary growth and forest edges, which helps buffer it from moderate habitat change.

Gallery

Bird photo
Bird photo

Behaviour

Temperament

mostly shy and canopy-dwelling

Flight Pattern

strong direct flight with quick wingbeats between perches

Social Behavior

Usually seen singly or in pairs, occasionally in small family parties. It is territorial during the breeding season, advertising with rich whistles. The nest is a woven, suspended cup placed high in a fork, and both parents typically attend the young.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A series of mellow, fluting whistles and rolling phrases that carry well through forest canopies. Calls include sharper chacks and squeaky notes used in contact and alarm.

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