Like most Central American birds, it is not a migratory species and does not display significant sexual dimorphism.

DNA analysis of the ND2 and cyt-b genes strongly suggests that I. graduacauda is most closely related to I. chrysater, the yellow-backed oriole.

This subspecies is endemic to high altitude pine forests is western Mexico.

Audubon's oriole inhabits dense evergreen forests and thickets, preferring riparian (riverside) areas.

Though it prefers the shade, mating pairs may occasionally spotted foraging in clearings.

In flight, it joins mixed-species flocks that include orioles, jays, tanagers, and other birds of similar size.

It feeds on insects, spiders, fruits, and also accepts sunflower seeds from bird feeders.