The western oriole, or western black-headed oriole, is a species of bird in the family Oriolidae that is native to Africa. The adult upperparts are yellow-olive, and the underparts are yellow in colour. It is rated as a species of least concern on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Endangered Species.
Region
West and Central Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland and foothill evergreen forests, forest edges, and mature secondary growth from West Africa east into parts of Central Africa. It favors the mid to upper canopy but will descend to fruiting trees in clearings and gardens near forest. The species adapts to selectively logged forest and well-wooded plantations, provided large trees remain. It is generally absent from open savanna far from forest.
Altitude Range
0–1600 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the western black-headed oriole, this brightly colored forest bird is native to West and Central Africa. Its fluty whistles carry far through the canopy and are often heard before the bird is seen. It frequently forages in pairs or small family groups and may join mixed-species flocks around fruiting trees.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
strong, direct flier between canopy trees
Social Behavior
Usually found singly, in pairs, or small family parties in the canopy. Builds a neat, suspended cup nest high in trees; both sexes participate in nesting duties. Often associates loosely with mixed-species flocks when fruiting trees are abundant.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Rich, fluty whistles and mellow, ringing phrases delivered from high perches. Calls include sharp chacks and liquid notes that carry well through dense foliage.
Plumage
Bright yellow underparts with yellow-olive upperparts and a contrasting black head and throat; wings slightly darker with subtle edging.
Diet
Takes a mix of insects such as caterpillars, beetles, and grasshoppers, as well as spiders gleaned from leaves and bark. Consumes a variety of soft fruits, especially figs and other canopy berries. Will occasionally sip nectar or probe flowers when available, making it an opportunistic feeder.
Preferred Environment
Forages mainly in the mid to upper canopy of primary and mature secondary forest. Frequently visits fruiting trees along forest edges, clearings, and in agroforestry plots or shaded plantations.
