Fauna
Bird · GBIF taxon 5229882

Hooded Oriole

Icterus cucullatus

Also known as Palm Oriole

Hooded orioles weave elaborate, pouch-like nests from palm fibers, suspending them beneath the broad leaves of fan palms and ornamental trees. Males flash brilliant orange or golden-yellow hoods contrasting against stark black throats and backs, while females display subdued olive-yellow tones. Their buoyant flight and high-pitched, piping whistles animate suburban neighborhoods, riparian corridors, and desert oases across the American Southwest.

MigratorySongbirdColorful
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
  • Insects
  • Nectar
  • Berries
Predators
  • Domestic Cats
  • Cooper's Hawks
  • Snakes
ThreatsHabitat loss, outdoor cats, and brood parasitism by cowbirds
HabitatsPalm groves, suburban gardens, riparian woodlands, and arid scrub
Life span4–6 years
  1. OrderPasseriformes
  2. FamilyIcteridae
  3. GenusIcterus
  4. SpeciesIcterus cucullatus
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
  • Suburban Attraction: Plant fan palms or hang nectar feeders filled with a four-to-one water and sugar solution.
  • Listening for Calls: Listen for a sharp, rising whistle or a dry, chattering call along tree canopies.
  • Providing Fruit: Offer halved oranges or fresh berries during spring migration to encourage quick visits.
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