The Maroon oriole is approximately 25-28cm long and has a
wing length of 15cm. Their head, neck, and wings are black
while the rest of their plumage is scarlet red. Females have
darker colored bodies than males and dark vertical spots on
their chests; juveniles have lighter colored bodies than adults
and brown vertical specks on their abdomens. Males and females
collaborate closely together to share the work of incubating
their eggs and caring for their young. A beautiful, brightly
colored bird, the Maroon oriole catches people's attention
easily with its mixture of dark red feathers and immaculate
black feathers, as well as its silver-blue beak.
Behavior:
Maroon
orioles have a voice similar to that of Monterrat orioles,
consisting of either low, sweet-sounding whistles or quavering
squawks. Maroon orioles have a diet consisting primarily of
insects and seeds. Their nests, which are usually suspended
from the tips of branches up to ten meters above the ground,
are built during their breeding season between April and June.
Males are responsible for incubating the eggs, bringing back
food, and feeding the young, while females are responsible
for cleaning the nest and removing the excrement of the nestlings.
In addition, during bad weather, the female will cover the
nestlings or juveniles with her wings while the male doubles
up the protection by shielding both the female and the young
under his wings. When flying, their wings produce a curving,
wave-like movement. Maroon orioles are usually seen in broad-leaved
forests at low elevations either alone, in small groups, or
mingling with other birds.
Habitat:
Maroon
orioles are an uncommon species of bird endemic to Taiwan
usually found in sub-tropical forests at altitudes of 300-900m.
