The Altamira Oriole is the largest oriole in North America. They are mostly found in Mexico and parts of Central America. They were unknown in the United States until a bird was spotted in southern Texas in 1939. Since then, they have become increasingly common, and are breeding residents along the Rio Grande River along the Texas and Mexico border.
Habitat
In the United States, Altamira Orioles are usually found in forested areas along the Rio Grande river in southern Texas. In the more tropical parts of their range, they can be found in a variety of semi-open forested habitat and forest edges, but tend to avoid dense unbroken forest areas.
Diet
Feeds on insects and berries, and will also take fruits and berries.
Behavior
Moves slowly through the foliage of trees and in the forest undergrowth, searching for insects.
Nesting
The nest of an Altamira Oriole is a very long pouch, built of grasses, moss, weed stems, strips of bark, and other material, hanging down from the end of a tree branch. The female lays between 4 and 6 eggs. Once the eggs hatch, both parents help feed the young.
Interactive eBird Map
Click to access an interactive eBird map of Altamira Oriole sightings.
Song
Song is a series of clear whistles, delivered slowly and deliberately with pauses in between notes.
Migration
Considered a permanent resident throughout their normal range.
Feeders
Will attend hummingbird feeders for sugar water, and will also sometimes come for offered fruits and jelly.
Similar Species
In range, most likely to be confused with Hooded Oriole, Baltimore Oriole, Bullock's Oriole.
Conservation Status
Populations may be increasing, and the geographic range may be expanding. The IUCN lists the Altamira Oriole as a species of "Least Concern".
Further Information
- eBird - Altamira Oriole
- Audubon Field Guide - Altamira Oriole
- Cornell All About Birds - Altamira Oriole
Photo Information
Photo by Mark Watson - March 12th, 2011 - Bensen State Park near McAllen, Texas - Photo licensed under Creative Commons Attribution NonCommercial NoDerivs 2.0 Generic License.
