Of the neotropical orioles that may be seen in the southern U.S., the Streak-backed Oriole is one of the scarcest. It has not established a permanent foothold as have the Hooded, Altamira, Scott's and Audubon's Orioles.The Streak-backed Oriole is similar to Hooded Oriole, in whose range it may occur. It's upper back is streaked lengthwise in all plumages (not barred side-to-side, as in the winter male Hooded Oriole). The bill is also thicker and straighter. The head of the male Streak-backed Oriole is deeper red-orange than the male Hooded Oriole. The wings are black with two bold white bars. The tail is black with white corners. The female and immature are duller than male with yellow-orange on head. The immature lacks the black lores and bib present in adults.The Streak-backed Oriole's song is generally similar to the song of the Northern Oriole. It includes an unmelodious warble and dry chattering. It also makes a series of clear wheet call notes.The Streak-backed Oriole is a year-round resident from northwestern Mexico to northern Costa Rica and a casual visitor (usually fall or winter) to southeastern Arizona and southern California. It prefers arid and semi-arid scrubby open areas, brushy woodland and plantations. |
