Uncovering the Magnificence of the Montezuma Oropendola in the World of Songbirds
This remarkable avian species boasts an impressive size and a distinctive, unforgettable tune that the male produces during his mating ritual. The performance includes a bowing showcase accompanied by lively bubbling and resonant gurgling.
The Montezuma Oropendola, scientifically known as Psarocolius Montezuma, is a bird found in the tropical regions of the New World. This species boasts a predominantly chestnut body with a black head and rump, measuring up to 50 cm in length and weighing around 520 grams. The tail is adorned with two central feathers in bright yellow while the male also sports blue cheek patches with a pink wattle. Its eyes are brown, bill long and black, and has a red tip.
Ladies may bear a striking resemblance to gentlemen, but they’re a tad bit smaller. They measure in at 38 cm long and weigh 230 grams, and their wattles are also on the smaller side. The younger generation doesn’t quite have the same pizzazz as the grown-ups – their bills are paler and less defined, resulting in a duller appearance overall.
The species of this feathered creature is commonly found in the coastal lowlands of the Caribbean, ranging from southeastern Mexico up to central Panama. It is important to note that it is not present in certain areas like El Salvador and southern Guatemala. Additionally, this bird can also be spotted in Nicaragua and Honduras, as well as in Costa Rica.
The Montezuma Oropendola bird has a preference for residing in the forest canopy, as well as on the borders of forests and old plantations. They are often witnessed in groups, scouring the trees for prey such as small vertebrates, sizable insects, fruits, and nectar.
The Montezuma Oropendola birds are social creatures that mate in groups. They construct their nests from vines and fibers, hanging them high in trees up to 180 cm long. The female lays white spotted eggs, which take around 15 days to hatch, and then takes 30 more days for the young ones to become fully grown. The colonies can accommodate up to 30 nests, with a dominant male bird mating with most of the females.
The Montezuma Ordonpendola is considered to be of Least Concern on the IUCN species list, thanks to its sizable distribution and consistent numbers.
Experience the incredible melody of this bird by watching and listening to it below: