Sunday 28 February 2016

Olive-backed Orioles

For the past weeks we have noticed a wattle-bird sized bird with a black-flecked white belly on the grape vine outside our lounge-room window. It is very flighty and takes off if it detects the slightest movement so it has been difficult to get a good look or take a photo.

However, today I got a good look and it is unmistakably an Olive-backed Oriole (Oriolus sagittatus).
We haven't heard its distinctive 'orry-orry-orriole" call.
I believe this bird is not common in the Macedon Ranges.
Has anyone else seen Orioles in the Macedon Ranges or Riddells Creek?

Here is a photo I took of an Olive-backed Oriole further north where they are more common.
The adults develop a red eye and pinkish bill.

David Francis, Mount Macedon


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