Black-naped Oriole

Overview

The black-naped oriole (Oriolus chinensis) is a passerine bird in the oriole family found throughout many parts of Asia. It is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Medium-sized bird with overall golden plumage and a strong pinkish bill that is stouter than that of the golden oriole.
• Features a broad black mask and nape, where the stripe broadens and joins at the back of the neck.
• Males have central tail feathers tipped yellow with broader yellow on lateral feathers; females are similar but have more greenish wing linings.
• Exhibits a dipping flight pattern.

Habitat

This species inhabits forests, gardens, and plantations across Asia. Breeding populations are found in eastern Siberia, northeastern China, Korea, Japan, and northern Vietnam, while resident populations exist in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It is also found in tropical Southeast Asia during winter and has established as a breeder in Singapore.

Diet

The black-naped oriole feeds on berries such as Trema orientalis and Ficus, as well as insects. It forages in the canopy and has been noted in India to take nectar from large flowers such as those of Salmalia and Erythrina.

Did you know?

These birds may have aided in the dispersal of Ficus species into the island of Krakatoa, where they were among the early pioneer species. They can also act as nest predators to smaller birds.