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 Guide to Birds of North America Baltimore Oriole Description
DescriptionBREEDING MALEMales are brilliant orange on the underparts, with a completely black head, black upperparts, and orange rump.
FemaleFemales are yellowish-orange on the breast, with whitish underparts, a grayish-brown to blackish head and upperparts, and two white wing bars.
Seasonal change in appearanceNone.JuvenileJuveniles resemble females. First spring males resemble adult males but have only limited black on the head and two white wing bars.HabitatBaltimore Orioles inhabit woodlands, riparian areas, and parks or gardens with mature trees.DietBaltimore Orioles eat insects, berries, and nectar.BehaviorBaltimore Orioles forage within trees and shrubs, sometimes visiting flowers or bird feeders for nectar.RangeBaltimore Orioles breed throughout the eastern U.S. and south-central Canada. They winter in Mexico south to South America. The population has declined slightly in recent decades.
More information:Bent Life HistoryVisit the Bent Life History for extensive additional information on the Baltimore Oriole. Wing ShapeThe shape of a bird's wing is often an indication of its habits and behavior. Fast flying birds have long, pointed wings. Soaring birds have long, broad wings. Different songbirds will have a slightly different wing shape. Some species look so much alike (Empidonax flycatchers) that scientists sometimes use the length of specific feathers to confirm a species' identification.
Wing images from the University of Puget Sound, Slater Museum of Natural History Fun FactsBaltimore Orioles hybridize with Bullock’s Orioles in the Great Plains, where their ranges meet. They were formerly lumped as the Northern Oriole. There are a number of records of vagrant Baltimore Orioles in the western U.S., usually in the fall. VocalizationsThe song consists of a series of rich whistles. A short rattle call is given as well.Purchase the ringtone for this species at www.feathertalk.com Similar Species
NestingThe Baltimore Oriole’s nest is a deep, hanging pouch of plant fibers, grass, and string and is lined with finer materials. It is placed near the end of a deciduous tree branch.
EggsNumber: usually lay 4-5. Color: Pale bluish with darker markings.
Professor BirdAttractingCan be attracted to backyards. Try offering:
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