The russet-backed oropendola is a species of bird in the family Icteridae. It is found in wooded habitats in the highlands of the northern and central Andes and the Venezuelan Coastal Range, and in lowlands of the western Amazon. It is generally common and widespread. Males are larger than females, but otherwise the sexes are similar. Its plumage is mainly olive and brown, and the outer rectrices are contrastingly yellow. The lowland nominate subspecies has a black bill, while the highland subspecies all have pale bills. These have been regarded as separate species, but as they hybridize freely, all major authorities now regard them as a single species.
Region
Northern and central Andes and western Amazon Basin
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid montane and foothill forests, forest edges, and secondary growth from the Venezuelan Coastal Range through Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and into Bolivia, as well as adjacent lowland forests of the western Amazon. Frequently uses forest clearings, riverine woods, and disturbed habitats such as plantations. Often nests in tall emergent trees near open areas or water. Generally common and adaptable within suitable wooded habitats.
Altitude Range
0–2600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A colonial nester, it weaves long, pendulous basket nests that can hang over 60 cm from high branches, often in conspicuous colonies. Highland birds have pale bills while lowland birds have black bills, and the forms interbreed where they meet. Its loud, bubbling display songs are given during bowing displays. By eating fruit and insects, it helps disperse seeds and control arthropods.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong flier with steady wingbeats, short glides between canopy gaps
Social Behavior
Breeds in colonies, suspending multiple long, woven nests from high branches. Males are larger and perform display bows and songs to attract females. Often forages in small groups or joins mixed-species flocks outside the breeding season. Shows local elevational movements following fruiting trees.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a rich series of bubbling, gurgling notes and liquid trills delivered during a bowing display. Calls include harsh chacks, creaks, and nasal notes used to keep contact within colonies.
