Black-backed Oriole vs Scott's Oriole

In short

The Black-backed Oriole and Scott's Oriole can be distinguished by their plumage and habitat preferences. The Black-backed Oriole has a mostly black face and rump, while Scott's Oriole is characterized by a more limited amount of black on the head. Habitat preferences also differ, with the Black-backed Oriole found in central Mexico and Scott's Oriole in desert regions of the southwestern United States.

Identification tips

1. Look for the black face and rump in Black-backed Orioles. 2. Note the limited black on the head of Scott's Orioles. 3. Consider the location: central Mexico for Black-backed Oriole, southwestern U.S. deserts for Scott's Oriole. 4. Observe flocking behavior: Black-backed may be seen with Bullock's Orioles.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of medium-sized orioles.

Plumage

The Black-backed Oriole has a mostly black face, black rump, and black uppertail coverts, with orange underparts. In contrast, Scott's Oriole displays a variable, but limited amount of black feathering on the head, with more yellow on the underparts.

Behaviour

Black-backed Orioles often forage in small flocks, sometimes with Bullock's Orioles, while Scott's Orioles are known to wander outside their usual range.

Habitat

Black-backed Orioles are typically found in central Mexico, whereas Scott's Orioles inhabit desert regions of the southwestern United States.