The streak-backed oriole is a medium-sized species of passerine bird from the icterid family. It is native to Central America and Mexico and is an occasional visitor to the United States.
Region
Western Mexico and Central America
Typical Environment
Found from western and southern Mexico south through Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and into northwestern Costa Rica, mainly along the Pacific slope. It occupies tropical dry forest, thorn-scrub, riparian woodland, and semi-open second-growth with scattered trees. The species is common along arroyos, edges, and in agricultural mosaics with hedgerows. It readily uses flowering trees and gardens where native vegetation remains.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
This bright oriole weaves a long, pendant nest from plant fibers, often suspended at the tips of thorny branches for protection. It favors dry forests and scrub along the Pacific slope and sometimes wanders north, appearing in the southwestern United States. Multiple subspecies vary in the intensity of orange and the amount of back streaking.
Temperament
active and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with a strong, direct flight
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs during the breeding season, defending territories vigorously. Outside breeding, it may join loose family groups and mixed-species flocks in fruiting or flowering trees. The female weaves a hanging, basket-like nest; the male often guards and may assist with materials.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A rich series of clear, whistled phrases interspersed with chatter and harsh notes. Calls include sharp chacks and rattles, often delivered from exposed perches.
Plumage
Rich orange body with bold black streaking across the back and mantle; wings and tail mostly black with white edging and bars.
Diet
Eats insects and spiders gleaned from foliage and bark, as well as nectar and a variety of soft fruits. It probes flowers for nectar and will pry open oriole-friendly blooms. Fruits from native trees and cacti are important seasonally, and it occasionally visits hummingbird or oriole feeders.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the mid to upper canopy of dry forest, thorn-scrub, and along riparian corridors. Frequently uses edge habitats, gardens with flowering trees, and open woodland.
