How to identify the Common Iora

To correctly identify the Common Iora (Aegithina tiphia), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

12-16 cm

Wingspan

18-22 cm

Weight

12-17 g

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Adult males in breeding plumage are predominantly bright yellow on the underparts, head, and rump, with a black crown, nape, back, and tail. The wings are black with two prominent white wing-bars. Non-breeding males and females are generally duller, with olive-green upperparts, yellow underparts, and blackish wings with white wing-bars. The rump is typically yellowish-green. Juveniles resemble females but are even duller.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   Slender, pointed, and slightly decurved bill; typically dark grey to black.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Dark brown with a pale orbital ring.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Dark grey to blackish.

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   Bright yellow and black plumage (breeding male), two prominent white wing-bars, active foraging behavior, and distinctive 'whee-tee' calls.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Similar to females but with duller, more greenish-yellow plumage and less distinct wing-bars. The upperparts are often more olive-brown.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   Males undergo a significant plumage change for the breeding season, developing extensive glossy black on the crown, nape, back, and tail. Outside the breeding season, males resemble females, though they may retain some blackish mottling on the crown and back.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Pronounced, especially during the breeding season. Males develop a glossy black cap, back, and tail, contrasting sharply with bright yellow underparts. Females and non-breeding males have olive-green upperparts and yellow underparts, lacking the extensive black.

Key field marks

• Plumage (Breeding Male). Look for the striking combination of glossy black crown, nape, back, and tail contrasting with bright yellow underparts and rump. Two prominent white wing-bars on black wings are key.
• Plumage (Female/Non-breeding Male). Observe olive-green upperparts, yellowish-green rump, and yellow underparts. Blackish wings with two distinct white wing-bars are still present, though less contrasting than in breeding males.
• Behavior. Watch for its active foraging style, gleaning insects from foliage, often hanging upside down. Its restless movements and frequent vocalizations are characteristic.
• Vocalizations. Listen for the distinctive, clear, and melodious 'whee-tee-too' song and the sharp 'whee-tee' call. The male's 'parachute display' during singing is a strong indicator.
• Size and Shape. It's a small, compact passerine with a relatively short tail and a slender, pointed bill.

Explore the Common Iora