The olive-backed oriole, or white-bellied oriole, is a very common medium-sized passerine bird native to northern and eastern Australia and south-central New Guinea. The most wide-ranging of the Australasian orioles, it is noisy and conspicuous.
Region
Australasia
Typical Environment
Found across northern and eastern Australia and in south-central New Guinea. It frequents open forests, eucalypt woodlands, riparian corridors, and edges of rainforests. The species adapts well to parks, large gardens, and orchards where fruiting trees are available. It often forages in the mid to upper canopy but will descend to lower strata when food is abundant.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A widespread Australasian oriole, it is noisy yet often stays hidden high in the canopy. It builds a neat, deep cup nest slung between forked twigs, using plant fibers and spider silk. The species shows seasonal movements in parts of its range, tracking flowering and fruiting trees. Its fluty, far-carrying whistles are among the classic sounds of northern and eastern Australian woodlands.
Temperament
elusive but vocal
Flight Pattern
strong, direct canopy flight with brief undulating beats
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, sometimes forming loose groups in rich feeding sites. Monogamous during the breeding season, with a suspended cup nest placed high in foliage. Both parents participate in feeding and defending the young.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Rich, fluty whistles and yodeling phrases that carry far through woodland. Also gives harsher chattering notes when agitated or during interactions.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with a contrasting pale whitish to cream underbody finely streaked dark along the breast and flanks. Feathers are sleek and close-fitting, giving a smooth, glossy look in good light.
Diet
Takes a mixed diet of fruit, nectar, and arthropods such as beetles, caterpillars, and mantises. Frequently visits native figs and other fruiting trees and will glean insects from leaves and branches. Occasionally hawks for flying insects from a perch and probes flowers for nectar.
Preferred Environment
Primarily forages in the mid to upper canopy of eucalypt woodland, forest edges, and riverine trees. Readily uses suburban parks and gardens with large flowering or fruiting trees.
