Not only are they among the most beautiful species in their natural range, but they are also quite rare in the United States.

Icterus pustulatus, commonly known as the striped-backed oriole, is a medium-sized passerine bird of the icterid family. The length of the striped oriole, including the tail, is about 7.87 inches (200 mm); Its wingspan is 3.54 to 4.65 inches (90 to 118 mm); and its weight is 2.47 to 3.00 ounces (70 to 85 grams). In general, men are larger than women. Three groups comprise the features of “New World Blackbirds: The Icterids.” This group is distinct in that the males living in the northern range are vividly colored, but the females are often bland.

Females’ plumage gradually becomes lighter as they move south, until they resemble males at the southernmost point of their range.

Compared to the brighter-colored females in the north, the brighter-colored females also participated more actively in defending the territory.

This bird occasionally visits the United States, but it is native to Mexico and Central America.

Usually, open forests and semi-arid shrublands are their habitat. They prefer open forests with thorny understory Mimosa trees throughout much of their range. Additionally, it appears that in the absence of Mimosa, they choose areas rich in other thorny shrub species.

As a primary insect and spider species, striped orioles will also eat fruits, berries, seeds and nectar.

Seasonal monogamy refers to streaked orioles sticking to one partner during the mating season. Typically, they breed only once a year, with the majority of nesting activity occurring in mid to late spring and mid to late summer. There are some differences in different places. The female builds her own nest out of plant fibers, forming a large basket about 28 inches or 70 centimeters long. These nests are tightly attached to the tops of branches. Three to four eggs make up a typical clutch, and they take 12 to 14 days to hatch from the time of incubation. Before nesting, the young stay there for nearly two weeks, under the care of both parents.

The streaked oriole population is considered stable and the IUCN classifies them as “Least Extensive”.