Black Oriole illustration
Birdsong field guide

Black Oriole

Oriolus hosii

A rare and elusive songbird endemic to the montane forests of Borneo, distinguished by its uniform black plumage and deep chestnut undertail.

What it sounds like

A series of rich, liquid, flute-like whistles, typically delivered in a slow and somewhat mournful cadence.

Reference call, compare with what you heard
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Field notes

  • It is one of the most range-restricted members of the Oriolidae family, found exclusively in the mountains of Sarawak.
  • Unlike the vibrant yellow coloration typical of most orioles, this species has evolved almost entirely jet-black plumage.
  • Both males and females share the same appearance, featuring characteristic chestnut-colored undertail coverts.
  • It primarily inhabits the canopy of primary submontane forests at elevations ranging from 900 to 2,500 meters.
  • The species is currently classified as Near Threatened due to its small, fragmented population and high habitat specialization.
Habitat
Primary submontane and montane rainforests
Range
Montane regions of north-central Borneo (Sarawak, Malaysia)

Similar & commonly confused birds

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