Oriolus chinensis
The Black-naped Oriole, *Oriolus chinensis*, is a strikingly beautiful passerine, a vibrant "living jewel" of the Old World tropics. Measuring 23-28 cm (9-11 inches) in length with a weight typically between 70-100 grams, adults boast brilliant golden-yellow plumage contrasting sharply with a prominent black eye-stripe that extends into a bold nape band. Their wings are black with distinctive yellow patches, and the sturdy, slightly hooked bill is a striking reddish-pink. This eye-catching bl...
These orioles inhabit a variety of open woodlands, secondary forests, cultivated areas, parks, and large gardens, primarily in lowlands and foothills up to about 1,600 meters (5,250 feet).
Primarily insectivorous, consuming caterpillars, grasshoppers, beetles, and other invertebrates, supplemented significantly by a variety of ripe fruits, berries, and occasionally nectar.
Black-naped Orioles are diurnal and spend most of their active hours foraging high in the canopy, often making them surprisingly difficult to spot despite their bright coloration. They are agile gleaners, methodically searching leaves and branches for insects, and also sallying out to catch flyin...
The extensive breeding range of the Black-naped Oriole spans across vast swathes of South, Southeast, and East Asia. It breeds from the Indian subcontinent eastward through Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Singapore, extending northward into much of Chi...
Least Concern
- The Black-naped Oriole is often called a "living jewel" due to its dazzling golden-yellow plumage. - Despite its bright colors, it can be surprisingly difficult to spot as it typically forages high in dense tree canopies. - Its distinctive flute-like, melodious whistle is a hallmark sound of sp...