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.
