Distribution Map
Green Oriole
Oriolus flavocinctus
NativeStatus
CommonRarity
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Species Description
The Green Oriole, also known as the Australasian Yellow Oriole (Oriolus flavocinctus), is a medium-sized songbird found throughout northern Australia and parts of New Guinea. This inconspicuous bird is common in lush tropical habitats but is often overlooked due to its yellow-green plumage, which blends seamlessly with dense foliage. Its rich, bubbling calls are a signature sound of northern Australian rainforests.
Fun Facts
They are important seed dispersers for rainforest plants, helping maintain ecosystem health and diversity.
1. Bright red bill and red eyes contrasting with olive-green plumage
2. Olive-green upperparts blending to a yellower belly
3. Deep, bubbling, musical call often heard before the bird is seen
These orioles forage slowly and methodically through the middle and upper forest layers, feeding mainly on fruit (especially figs), but also on seeds, nectar, and insects. Breeding occurs during the wet season from October to March, with pairs building a neat, deep cup nest from bark strips and vines, lined with rootlets, and suspended between leafy branches 5–15 meters above ground. Typically, two eggs are laid, and both parents care for the young. Green Orioles are usually solitary or in pairs but may form small flocks around abundant food sources outside the breeding season.
Green Orioles inhabit tropical northern Australia, including the Top End, Kimberley, Cape York Peninsula, and adjacent islands. They are found in rainforests, mangroves, gallery forests along watercourses, swamps, and well-vegetated gardens. Though common, they are hard to spot due to their excellent camouflage, so listening for their distinctive calls is often the best way to detect them.
Physical Attributes
Height
28 cm
Size Relative to Other Birds62%
Top Locations
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