Orioles · Perching birds
Eurasian Golden Oriole
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Oriolus oriolus
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Voice
Song
Mats Havskogen
Song
Pascal Christe
Song
Sonothèque ADVL
How to recognize it
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Slightly larger than a starling, 24–25 cm
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Male: yellow body, black wings and tail
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Female: greener above, paler below, with dark streaks
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Fast, direct flight with shallow dips; usually hidden in treetops
About the species
The Eurasian Golden Oriole stands out with its warm yellow body and black wings in the male. On a walk, though, it is often easier to hear than to see, because it stays tucked high in leafy crowns and keeps out of sight.
It is active and restless, moving quickly from branch to branch, often with almost no sound. Its voice can be harsh, but it also gives a clear, fluting whistle that stays in your head after you hear it once.
It favors light broadleaf woods, groves, gardens, and parks with large trees. It feeds on insects, especially caterpillars, and also on berries and fruit, and it is a summer visitor that leaves for winter in Africa.
Where to find
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In tall leafy crowns of mature city parks — especially where birch, willow, or poplar trees still stand; the giveaway is the fluting song from high above while staying hidden in the foliage.
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Along canal banks, pond edges, and riverside strips with willows — look for quick hops between thin branches and brief flights into open gaps.
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In orchards, private gardens, and quiet streets with fruiting trees; early in the morning, a harsh rasping call and short whistles come from the canopy.
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On the edge of large wooded parks and roadside shelterbelts — often noticed by movement in the upper branches rather than by a clear view from the ground.
You might also see
Sources
- eBird — Oriolus oriolus Sightings map and full description on eBird
- Wikipedia — Eurasian golden oriole Encyclopedia article