Orioles are small birds part of the Icteridae family, commonly referred to as New World Orioles. The birds of the Old World, going by the name Old World orioles, aren’t similar, belonging to a different family altogether, the Oriolidae family. Yet, the two closely resemble each other in size, diet, plumage, and behavior. They thus form a perfect example of convergent evolution, unrelated to each other yet bearing similar traits.
Animalia | |
Chordata | |
Aves | |
Passeriformes |
Animalia | |
Chordata | |
Aves | |
Passeriformes |
One can observe orioles in the crowns of the treetops while their nests swing in the wind from the branches.
There are 33 species of New World orioles, which include:
Size: Length: 6-10 in (15.2 – 25.4 cm)
Weight: 2 oz
Body and Coloration: Notable sexual dimorphism exists amongst orioles. The females are both smaller and duller in color than the males. New World orioles have pointed beaks, with long feathered tails also present in some species.
Orioles are brightly colored birds with contrasting dark and light feathers. Most of them are covered with yellow or orange feathers, with black patches on backs, heads, tails, and wings.
Orioles are found throughout the Americas ad even Caribbean Islands. Some rare species have been spotted in Europe, mainly Britain and Ireland.
They live in open woodlands in both deciduous and tropical environments.
New World orioles live for approximately 11 years in their wild habitat.
Omnivorous in nature, the New World orioles feed on berries, fruits, insects, and nectar.
They are generally monogamous, forming territorial pairs for mating. The nests of New World orioles look like long, elongated pouches.
The hens lay 2-3 eggs, though nests of 6 have been seen in the wild. After she incubates these eggs for 12-14 days, they hatch. Both parents nurture their chicks for about two weeks after hatching.
Out of all the New World orioles, the Bahama oriole is “Critically Endangered.” The other species are not currently at risk as most of them have adjusted to the presence of human civilization.
Like most birds, they migrate south once summer ends.
Orioles nest in trees like elms, maples, and cottonwoods.
Yes, in general, they are monogamous and pair for life, but extra-pair copulation has also been recorded.
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