kids encyclopedia robot

Band-tailed oropendola facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
Band-tailed oropendola
Conservation status
Scientific classification
Ocyalus latirostris map.svg
Observed range of Brazil and Peru     Year-Round Range
Synonyms

Psarocolius latirostris (Swainson, 1838)
Ocyalus latirostris

The band-tailed oropendola (Cacicus latirostris) is a special type of bird that belongs to the Icteridae family. These birds are known for their unique nests and beautiful songs.

You can find them in small numbers in the western part of the Amazon. This includes countries like Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, and the very southern tip of Colombia.

What is a Band-tailed Oropendola?

The band-tailed oropendola is a medium-sized bird. It is part of a group of birds called oropendolas. These birds are famous for building long, hanging nests. They look a bit like woven baskets.

Why are they called "Band-tailed"?

These birds get their name from a special feature. They have a distinct band of color on their tail feathers. This band helps people identify them. It makes them stand out from other birds in the rainforest.

Where Do Band-tailed Oropendolas Live?

Band-tailed oropendolas live in the amazing Amazon Rainforest. This huge forest is full of different plants and animals. They prefer areas with tall trees.

Their Home in the Amazon

They are found in the western Amazon. This means parts of Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, and Colombia. They usually live in low-density areas. This means there are not many of them in one place. They like to be near rivers and streams.

What Do They Look Like?

Band-tailed oropendolas have striking colors. Their bodies are mostly dark. They often have bright patches of color. These patches can be on their tails or wings.

Size and Features

These birds are usually about the size of a crow. They have strong beaks. Their beaks are often pale yellow or white. This color contrasts with their dark feathers. Their eyes are usually light-colored too.

What Do Band-tailed Oropendolas Eat?

Like many birds, band-tailed oropendolas have a varied diet. They eat different things they find in the rainforest. This helps them stay healthy.

Their Favorite Foods

They mostly eat fruit. They also enjoy eating insects. Sometimes, they might even eat small vertebrates. They use their strong beaks to get food. They search for food in the trees.

How Do They Behave?

Band-tailed oropendolas are social birds. They often live in groups. They are known for their interesting calls. Their calls can sound like gurgling or bubbling.

Nesting Habits

One of the most amazing things about oropendolas is their nests. They build long, pouch-like nests. These nests hang from tree branches. They often build their nests in colonies. This means many nests are in one tree. It helps protect their young from predators.

Conservation Status

The band-tailed oropendola is currently listed as "Least Concern" by the IUCN. This means their population is stable. It is not considered to be in danger right now.

Protecting Their Home

Even though they are not endangered, it is important to protect their habitat. The Amazon Rainforest faces threats. Protecting the rainforest helps all the animals. This includes the band-tailed oropendola.

See also

Kids robot
A friendly robot, ready to learn!

Images for kids

kids search engine
Band-tailed oropendola Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.