The oriole blackbird is a species of bird in the family Icteridae. Its genus, Gymnomystax, is monotypic. It is a medium-sized yellow and black bird found in Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, French Guiana, Guyana, Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela, where its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest, subtropical or tropical moist shrubland, subtropical or tropical seasonally wet or flooded lowland grassland, and swamps.
Region
Northern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs from eastern Colombia and Venezuela through the Guianas to northern Brazil, with populations in eastern Ecuador and northeastern Peru. It favors lowland habitats including river edges, swamps, marshes, gallery forest margins, and seasonally flooded grasslands. It also uses shrubby thickets and plantation edges near water. The species often follows the mosaic of open wet savanna, riparian woodland, and forest edge across the Guiana Shield and adjacent basins.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Despite its name, the oriole blackbird is not a true oriole but an icterid, and the only species in its genus. It is strikingly colored and often perches conspicuously along rivers and wetlands. Pairs or small groups are commonly seen in seasonally flooded savannas where they feed and nest. Its adaptability to open and semi-open habitats has helped keep populations stable across much of northern South America.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
direct flight with short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often seen in pairs or small groups, foraging and moving together along wetland edges. Nests are usually placed low to medium height in shrubs, reeds, or small trees near water. Likely socially monogamous, with both parents attending the nest. It is bold and conspicuous, frequently using exposed perches to sing and survey.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Loud, clear whistled phrases mixed with harsh, metallic notes. Calls carry well over open wetlands and savannas, and males often sing from prominent perches. Alarm calls are sharper and more scolding.
