Psarocolius atrovirens
The Dusky-green Oropendola (Psarocolius atrovirens) is a captivating, medium-sized neotropical songbird belonging to the Icteridae family, which includes orioles, blackbirds, and meadowlarks. Adults typically measure 33 to 40 cm (13-16 inches) in length, with males being noticeably larger and heavier than females, exhibiting clear sexual dimorphism in size. Its plumage is predominantly a deep, dusky olive-green, contrasting sharply with a rich chestnut-brown rump and striking bright yellow ou...
Found primarily in subtropical and tropical moist montane forests, cloud forests, and forest edges, typically at elevations ranging from 800 to 2,500 meters (2,600 to 8,200 feet).
Primarily frugivorous and insectivorous, consuming a variety of large insects, spiders, and a wide range of fruits, occasionally supplementing with nectar from flowers.
Dusky-green Oropendolas are diurnal birds, active from dawn to dusk, often foraging in small, loose flocks or mixed-species feeding frenzies. Their foraging strategy involves gleaning insects and fruit from foliage in the canopy and subcanopy, occasionally probing into bark or epiphytes. While co...
The Dusky-green Oropendola is endemic to the eastern slopes of the Andes in South America, inhabiting a continuous range from southern Colombia, extending through eastern Ecuador and Peru, and reaching central Bolivia. Its distribution is closely tied to the montane cloud forest belt, typically f...
Least Concern
- The Dusky-green Oropendola constructs one of the most elaborate avian nests, weaving long, pendulous baskets from vines and plant fibers, sometimes over a meter in length. - These oropendolas often choose nesting sites near active wasp or bee nests, a clever strategy thought to deter mammalian ...