Image credit: © Carlos Sanchez

Chestnut-headed Oropendola

Scientific Name: Psarocolius wagleri

Rather large, dark, yellow-tailed bird of humid evergreen forest and edge in tropical lowlands. Where present, colonies of large pendulous nests adorn tall trees. Often in flocks, usually in forest canopy at fruiting trees. Male is much larger than female, but sexes look similar, with a dark, rich brown head and body, blackish upperparts, pale yellowish bill, and bold yellow tail sides. Flight much quicker than larger Montezuma Oropendola, with deep, rather swooping wingbeats that produce a rushing sound.

Their vocalizations are equally distinctive, a mix of liquid gurgles, harsh squawks, and sharp clicks, often delivered in synchronized bursts from the colony. This cacophony serves as both territorial declaration and social bonding within the group. While foraging, they meticulously inspect branches and foliage, seeking insects, fruits, and occasionally small vertebrates. Their social structure is complex, with dominant males maintaining harems and participating in elaborate courtship displays involving bowing, tail-fanning, and vocal duets.

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