The variable oriole is a species of bird in the family Icteridae. It was formerly considered to be conspecific with the epaulet oriole.
Region
Southern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs from eastern Bolivia and Paraguay through southern Brazil to Uruguay and northern-central Argentina. It favors woodland edges, gallery forests, riparian thickets, savannas with scattered trees, and second-growth scrub. The species readily uses human-altered habitats such as plantations, parks, and rural groves. It forages from the understory to the canopy and often frequents flowering and fruiting trees. Local movements may follow seasonal resource availability.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The variable oriole is a South American icterid whose plumage pattern, especially the shoulder 'epaulet,' varies across its range. It was formerly treated as conspecific with the epaulet oriole (Icterus cayanensis) before being split on vocal and morphological differences. Like other orioles, it weaves a hanging, basket-like nest suspended from flexible branches. It helps control insect populations and also disperses seeds by feeding on fruits.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong flier with direct, rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups, sometimes joining mixed feeding flocks outside the breeding season. Pairs are territorial during nesting and construct deep, hanging basket nests from fibrous plant material. The nest is suspended from the tips of flexible branches over open space or water to deter predators.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Song is a series of clear, fluty whistles and rich, liquid phrases delivered from exposed perches. Calls include sharp chacks and chatter, with some mimicry and variability between individuals.
