This magnificent avian creature boasts an impressive size and a song that is sure to leave a lasting impression. During courtship, the male performs a striking bowing routine while producing a chatty bubbling and thunderous gurgles.
Introducing the Montezuma oropendola, a fascinating bird species worth getting to know!
The Montezuma Oropendola, also known as Psarocolius Montezuma, is a bird from the icterid family found in tropical areas of the New World. The male is approximately 50cm in length and weighs around 520 grams. Its body is mostly chestnut in color with a black head and rump. The tail is eye-catching, being bright yellow with two central feathers that are dark in color. Two blue patches adorn its cheeks, along with a pink wattle. The Montezuma Oropendola has brown eyes, a long black bill and a red tip.
Despite being smaller in size, females have a striking resemblance to males. They measure up to 38 cm in length and weigh around 230 grams. However, the only noticeable difference is their smaller wattle. On the other hand, young birds have a less-defined bill and are less vibrant compared to adults.
The avian species that we are referring to is a local of the coastal lowlands of the Caribbean, and it procreates from southeastern Mexico to central Panama. However, it is not found in El Salvador and southern Guatemala. These birds can also be spotted in Nicaragua, Honduras, and Costa Rica.
The Montezuma Oropendola has a preference for residing in the uppermost portion of the forest, especially near the wooded perimeters and former agricultural sites.
Observing Montezuma Oropendola birds in the wild is a treat for bird enthusiasts as they often gather in large groups to search for food. They have a diverse diet that includes small vertebrates, fruit, large insects, and nectar. These birds are colonial breeders, which means they construct communal hanging nests made from fibers and vines. The nests can measure up to 180 cm and accommodate several females. Female birds lay spotted white eggs in these nests, and after an incubation period of approximately 15 days, the young hatch and take about 30 days to become fully fledged. These colonies can have up to 30 nests, with one dominant male mating with most of the females, making for an exciting observation opportunity.
The Montezuma Ordonpendola is considered to be of Least Concern on the IUCN’s list of species due to its abundant population and wide distribution.
Check out the incredible melody of this bird by watching and listening to the video below: