Icterus cayanensis
The Epaulet Oriole, *Icterus cayanensis*, is a striking member of the blackbird family (Icteridae), known for its glossy black plumage punctuated by a vibrant yellow-orange to bright yellow shoulder patch, or "epaulet." This medium-sized oriole typically measures 19-23 cm (7.5-9 inches) in length and weighs around 35-50 grams, showcasing a sleek, streamlined body with a pointed bill. Distinctive field marks include the contrasting bright epaulets on an otherwise entirely black body, a feature...
This adaptable oriole thrives in a variety of open woodland habitats, including forest edges, secondary growth, riverine forests, clearings, and plantations, generally at low to mid-elevations up to 1000 meters.
Primarily omnivorous, their diet consists of a wide variety of insects, such as caterpillars, beetles, and crickets, supplemented by fruits, berries, and nectar, which they obtain through gleaning and probing.
Epaulet Orioles are diurnal and often seen foraging actively during the day, either singly, in pairs, or sometimes in small family groups, occasionally joining mixed-species flocks outside the breeding season. Their foraging strategy involves gleaning insects from foliage, probing flowers for nec...
The Epaulet Oriole boasts an extensive distribution across tropical South America, being a resident species throughout its range with no significant migratory movements. Its breeding range spans from eastern Colombia, Venezuela, and the Guianas, south through much of the Amazon Basin in Peru, Ecu...
Least Concern
- The Epaulet Oriole's taxonomic history is complex; it was once considered conspecific with the Moriche Oriole (*Icterus chrysocephalus*) and has multiple recognized subspecies across its vast range. - Its common name directly refers to the bright yellow-orange patch on its shoulder, which resem...