Golden Oriole
Scientific Name: Oriolus OriolusMaltese Name: Tajra Safra
Family: Orioles (Oriolidae)
Occurence: Regular
Breeds in Malta: No
Overview:
The Golden Oriole is a beautiful, exotic looking bird, with its striking yellow and black plumage. It is the size of a Starling. It feeds on caterpillars, insects, fruits and berries. The Male has the sensational plumage while the Female is more dull. It is often seen resting on trees occasionally in small groups. It has a pleasant, whistling song. Prefers wooded areas with cover and forage. Many Orioles winter in Africa and then all come back to their breeding grounds in Europe. It makes its nest in a tree with 3-4 eggs laid. Golden Orioles live up to 5 years and their population is secure.
Status:
It is regularly seen in migration, seen solitary or in small groups.
When to See:
The Golden Oriole is a regular spring migrant seen in April-May and frequent in Autumn Sep-Oct
Where to See:
Buskett is the best site to see Golden Orioles where up to 25 birds can be present feeding in the ''Naspli'' trees in May/June. Other sites include Comino and any other wooded areas or valleys with cover.
Photographs:
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| Close up view of a Male Golden Oriole |
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