Black-vented Oriole

The Black-vented Oriole is a bird of open forested lands of Mexico and Central America. It was unknown in the United States until a single bird was found in Big Bend National Park in 1968.  Since that time, the species has been found on occasion in both southern Texas and in far southeastern Mexico.  Breeding evidence has been found in Texas. 

Habitat: Normal habitat includes semi-arid, open forest lands and scrubland with scattered trees.  They are typically found in lowlands or rather low on mountainous slopes. 

Diet: Feeds heavily on insects and spiders, but will also eat fruits, berries, seeds, and nectar.

Behavior: Usually nests in low- to mid-elevations in the forest canopy.  Foraging may done anywhere from near ground level to high in the forest canopy.

Nesting: The nest of a Black-vented Oriole is placed low in a tree or in forest understory, and is made of various plant fibers.  A clutch consists of 2 to 5 eggs, and the female alone incubates them. 

Song: Males sing loud, squeaky warbling.

Migration: Considered a permanent resident throughout its range, some short distance seasonal migration is noted.

Feeders: May attend feeders for suet, fruits, jellies, and nectar.

Interactive eBird Map: Click here to access an interactive eBird map of Black-vented Oriole sightings

Similar Species: In range, most likely to be confused with Scott's Oriole. 

Conservation Status: Populations are considered stable, and the IUCN lists the Black-vented Oriole as a species of "Least Concern"

Further Information: 1) BirdLife International - Black-vented Oriole

2) WhatBird - Black-vented Oriole

3) Audubon Guide - Black-vented Oriole

Photo Information: Photo taken by Jeff Whitlock. Photo licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 2.0 Generic License

 

Click below for a higher-resolution map

South Dakota Status: Non-resident in South Dakota

Additional Black-vented Oriole Photos (Coming soon...)