Indian golden oriole

The Indian golden oriole is a species of oriole found in the Indian subcontinent and Central Asia. The species was formerly considered to be a subspecies of the Eurasian golden oriole, but is now considered a full species. Adults can be told apart from the Eurasian golden oriole by the black of the eye stripe extending behind the eye.

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Distribution

Region

South Asia and Central Asia

Typical Environment

Occurs across much of the Indian subcontinent and into Central Asia, occupying open woodlands, groves, riverine forests, farmlands with scattered trees, and well-wooded urban parks and gardens. Prefers mature trees for nesting and foraging, often keeping to the mid- to upper canopy. Uses shelterbelts and orchards in agricultural landscapes. In winter it shifts southward to warmer regions where fruiting trees are abundant.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 2400 m

Climate Zone

Subtropical

Characteristics

Size23–26 cm

Wing Span42–48 cm

Male Weight0.075 kg

Female Weight0.07 kg

Life Expectancy8 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

Formerly treated as a subspecies of the Eurasian golden oriole, the Indian golden oriole is now recognized as a full species. Males show a more extensive black eye-stripe that extends behind the eye, helping separate them from Eurasian golden orioles. They are often heard before they are seen, delivering mellow whistles from the canopy. They readily visit fruiting trees and can be seen even in well-wooded urban areas.

Gallery

Male in nest (Hyderabad, India)

Male in Madhya Pradesh, India

Behaviour

Temperament

shy and canopy-dwelling

Flight Pattern

strong flier with undulating flight

Social Behavior

Usually solitary or in pairs outside the breeding season, occasionally joining loose mixed flocks in fruiting trees. Monogamous breeder that builds a neat, suspended cup nest slung from forked branches high in trees. Both sexes participate in nesting duties and care for the young.

Migratory Pattern

Partial migrant

Song Description

Song consists of rich, fluty whistles delivered from the canopy, often phrased as mellow, far-carrying notes. Calls include harsher scolds and chattering notes when alarmed or during interactions. Vocalizations are a key cue to its presence in dense foliage.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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