Oriolus sagittatus

List of Fact Sheets | Glossary

Search | Back Home

Family

Oriolidae

Genus

Oriolus

Species

sagittatus

Common Names

Olive-baked Oriole, Green Thrush, Oriole, Cedar Bird

Distinguishing Features

This species is 25-28cm in size with a fairly slim body and a strong bill. The males are recognisable for their red eye and pink bill. Their head, back and rump plumage is olive-green, while their wings and tail are grey. The female has a paler brown bill and a dull olive head and back with brown streaks. Both sexes have dark streaks across their white underparts.

Survey Techniques

Call and visual identification.

Species Call

A clear, mellow and musical sequence of 'orry-orry-orriole'.

Similar Species

In this region of Australia, the only similar species is the slightly larger Figbird (Sphecotheres viridis) with its unique black head and red bare skin around the eye.

Distribution

The Olive-backed Oriole is found from the Kimberlys in the northwest, across the top of NT and right throughout QLD, NSW and VIC, into SA to Adelaide.

Country of Origin

Australia

Conservation (Pet/Pest) Status - Regional

The population appears stable (COG).

Conservation (Pet/Pest) Status - National

Secure, not listed under the EPBC Act 1999.

LSCCES Population

One bird was sighted at the ANU.

Associated vegetation community

This species inhabits forest, woodland, rainforest and urban green spaces like golf courses.

Limiting Resources

This species is limited to where is can find fruit trees easily.

Breeding

The breeding season of the Olive-backed Oriole runs from September to January. The female builds a deep, cup-shaped nest in the outer foliage of a tree or shrub. 2-3 cream eggs, spotted with grey and brown are incubated for 18 days. After hatching, the male feeds young in nest for about 17 days.

Behaviour

The Orioles are seasonally migratory, spending time in Canberra from mid spring to late summer, following fruiting trees. They are very vocal as they move back into the suburbs in spring. They can be seen feeding in the canopy of fruit trees, either singularly or in pairs, sometimes seen feeding with Figbirds (Sphecotheres viridis).

Functional Group

Omnivore

Food Species

The Olive-backed Oriole spends its time in fruit-bearing trees eating insects, fruits and berries. Some of the most popular fruit trees include the Small-fruited Fig, (Ficus macrocarpa), White Cedar (Melia azaderach) and the Native Peach (Trema aspera).

Predators

Cats (Felis catus) and large birds like the Pied Currawong (Strepera graculina ).

Interesting Fact

Established breeding pairs sing to one another regularly throughout the year, perhaps as a way to help maintain a strong bond.