A member of the icterid family, the medium-sized passerine bird Icterus pustulatus is commonly called the striped oriole. The striped oriole weighs 2.47 to 3.00 ounces (70 to 85 grams), has a wingspan of 3.54 to 4.65 inches (90 to 118 mm), and a total length of about 7.87 inches (200 mm) when the tail is included. Typically, males tend to be bigger than females. The action in “Blackbirds of the New World: The Icterids” takes place across three distinct groups. The males of this species are easily identifiable by their vivid plumage, whereas the females in the northern regions are more subdued.

At the very southern end of their range, the females’ plumage starts to mirror that of the males, having gradually grown brighter as one moves south.

Females with brighter plumage also take part in territorial defenses more frequently than their duller northern relatives.

Although it is primarily found in Central and Mexico, this bird does make rare trips to the US.

Open woods and semi-arid shrublands are common features in these areas. Along most of their range, you can find them in open woods where the understory is covered in prickly mimosa bushes. Additionally, it appears that when Mimosa is not present, they select areas with other types of prickly shrubs.

Although they mostly prey on spiders and insects, striped-backed orioles will also eat seeds, berries, nectar, and fruits.

When striped orioles stay with the same spouse all through mating season, it’s called seasonal monogamy. They only lay eggs once a year, and the best time to do so is between the middle of spring and the end of summer. Some places are different from others.

The female constructs the nest by hand, utilizing plant fibers to form a substantial basket that is approximately 28 inches (70 cm) in length. Branches are used to suspend these nests. A typical clutch consists of three or four eggs, and the incubation period is twelve to fourteen days. The baby birds stay in the nest with their parents for nearly two weeks before venturing out on their own.

Based on their current status as a “minor population” species, the Striped Oriole is thought to have stable numbers.