The Scott's oriole is a medium-sized icterid.
Region
Southwestern North America
Typical Environment
Breeds from the deserts and foothills of the southwestern United States south through northern and central Mexico. Most common in Sonoran and Chihuahuan Desert habitats, pinyon–juniper slopes, and arid oak scrub. Frequently associated with yucca, Joshua tree, agave, and open desert grassland with scattered shrubs. Winters largely in Mexico, where it uses similar dry and semi-open habitats.
Altitude Range
0–2500 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Scott's oriole is strongly associated with yucca and Joshua trees, often weaving its pouch-like nest from yucca fibers. Males deliver rich, whistled songs from exposed perches across desert slopes. The species readily sips nectar from agaves and sometimes visits hummingbird feeders. Its striking yellow-and-black plumage makes it one of the more conspicuous orioles of the arid Southwest.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
strong direct flight with rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
During the breeding season, pairs establish and defend territories, with nests often suspended from yucca leaves. The female weaves a deep pouch-like nest, while the male provides vigilance and sings from prominent perches. Outside breeding, they may forage alone or in loose, scattered groups.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
The song is a series of rich, clear, fluted whistles delivered at a leisurely pace, often from exposed perches. Calls include sharp chucks and sweet, slurred notes that carry well across open desert.
Plumage
Adult male with glossy black hood, back, wings, and tail contrasting with bright lemon-yellow underparts and rump; two bold white wing bars. Female and immature birds are duller with olive-gray upperparts, yellowish underparts, and pale wing bars, lacking the solid black hood.
Diet
Feeds primarily on insects such as beetles, caterpillars, grasshoppers, and spiders gleaned from foliage and yucca clusters. Also consumes nectar from agave, yucca, and ocotillo, and will take small fruits and berries when available. Occasionally visits sugar-water feeders, especially in dry seasons.
Preferred Environment
Forages in arid scrub, desert edges, and foothill woodlands, especially where yucca and Joshua trees are present. Often searches along leaf bases, flower stalks, and bark crevices for hidden prey, and sips nectar from flowering plants.
