The yellow oriole is a passerine bird in the family Icteridae. It should not be confused with the green oriole, sometimes alternatively called the Australasian yellow oriole, which is an Old World oriole.
Region
Northern South America and southern Caribbean
Typical Environment
Occurs from northern Colombia and Venezuela to the island of Trinidad and adjacent offshore islands, with scattered populations in suitable habitats across the region. It favors open woodlands, savannas with trees, riparian edges, mangroves, and semi-urban parks and gardens. Plantations and farm edges with fruiting or flowering trees are frequently used. The species tolerates human-modified landscapes but still relies on patches of trees for nesting and foraging.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A New World oriole of the family Icteridae, the yellow oriole is bright yellow with contrasting black accents and is common in northern South America and nearby islands. It weaves a hanging, basket-like nest, often using plant fibers and suspended from palm fronds or slender branches. It is sometimes called the plantation oriole and readily visits flowering and fruiting trees. Do not confuse it with the green oriole (Australasian yellow oriole) of the Old World, which belongs to a different family.
Temperament
alert and moderately shy around humans
Flight Pattern
direct flight with rapid, shallow wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs during the breeding season, becoming more tolerant of small groups around abundant food sources. The female weaves a pendant, basket-like nest from plant fibers, often attached to palm fronds or flexible branch tips. Both parents usually attend the young, bringing insects and soft fruits.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of clear, mellow whistles interspersed with short, chattering notes. Calls include sharp chups and scolds, especially near the nest.
