Baltimore Oriole
Least ConcernIcterus galbula
Visual Identification
Baltimore Oriole
Appearance
The Baltimore Oriole is a striking songbird with vibrant orange and black plumage. Males display bright orange on their breast, underparts, shoulders and outer tail feathers, contrasting sharply with their black heads, backs, and wings. A single white wing bar adds a distinctive touch to their appearance.
Females show more variation in their appearance, with more subdued coloring that can range from olive-brown to nearly male-like plumage, often becoming more vibrant as they age. Young birds start with paler coloring, with males gradually developing their adult plumage over their first two years.
Size
Length
17cm to 19cm
Wingspan
23cm to 30cm
Weight
30g to 40g
Habitat and Distribution
Habitats
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Distribution
Baltimore Orioles breed in deciduous and mixed woodlands across eastern and central North America, from southern Canada to the central United States. They prefer open woodlands, forest edges, and mature shade trees in parks and gardens.
During winter, these birds migrate to warmer regions, including Florida, the Caribbean, Central America, and northern South America. In the US, they are common summer residents in the eastern states and parts of the Midwest.
Elevation Range
Up to 500 meters
Climate zones
Temperate, Subtropical
Distribution Map
Distribution by Region
Behaviour and Ecology
Bird Attributes
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Diet
Baltimore Orioles have a diverse diet that includes insects, fruits, and nectar. They are particularly fond of caterpillars, beetles, and grasshoppers. In spring and fall, they supplement their diet with ripe fruits like mulberries and cherries.
Their long, pointed beaks are well-adapted for probing flowers for nectar.
Behaviour
Baltimore Orioles are known for their acrobatic foraging, often hanging upside down to reach nectar or insects on the outermost branches of trees.
They are generally solitary birds during the breeding season but may form small flocks during migration. These orioles are also known for their bold behavior in defending their territories against intruders.
Vocalisation
The Baltimore Oriole's song is a series of rich, whistled notes, often described as a flute-like 'hew-li'. Their call is a sharp, chattering 'chatter-chatter' or a more plaintive 'weeek'.
Males sing more frequently and have a wider repertoire of vocalizations compared to females.
Nesting & Breeding
Baltimore Orioles begin their breeding season in late spring, typically May to June. Males perform elaborate courtship displays, including bowing and singing, to attract females.
Females construct distinctive, sock-like hanging nests woven from plant fibers, grasses, and string. These nests are usually placed high in deciduous trees, often near the end of a branch. A typical clutch consists of 3-7 pale blue eggs with dark markings.
Incubation lasts about 12-14 days, primarily done by the female. Both parents feed the nestlings, which fledge after about 12-14 days. Young orioles may remain dependent on their parents for several weeks after leaving the nest.
Lifespan
The Baltimore Oriole typically lives for 11 to 12 years, with a maximum recorded lifespan of 14 years.
Like all birds, lifespan can be affected by factors including predation, habitat quality, disease, and access to food sources.
Conservation and Status
Global Conservation Status
While currently listed as Least Concern, Baltimore Orioles face threats from habitat loss and climate change.
Conservation efforts focus on preserving deciduous forests and promoting bird-friendly urban landscapes. Citizen science projects help monitor population trends and migration patterns.
Birdwatching Tips
- Look for Baltimore Orioles in deciduous forests, especially near the edges or in open woodlands.
- Listen for their distinctive flute-like whistling song, especially during spring mornings.
- Set out orange halves or sugar water feeders to attract them to your yard.
- In the US and Canada, watch for them returning from migration in early May.
Additional Information
Quick Facts
Other names:
Northern Oriole
Family:
IcteridaePredators
Did You Know?
- Baltimore Orioles got their name from their resemblance to the colors on Lord Baltimore's coat of arms.
- They can consume nectar by using their tongues as capillary tubes.
- These birds have been known to use unusual materials like fishing lines and plastic strips in their nest construction.
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References
- 3 5
website: BirdLife International. 2018. Icterus galbula. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2018: e.T22724126A132026652.
View source - 4
website, 2022: Partners in Flight
View source - 1
website: Historical Longevity Records of North American Birds
View source - 2
book, 1980: John Terres, The Audubon Society Encyclopedia of North American Birds