Oklahoma Breeding Bird Species Profile: Baltimore Oriole

Here, here, come right here, dear

A common bird of open deciduous woods or tall trees, this solitary bird forages in mid- to upper level story trees for larvae and insects.  It will also eat fruit unless it is during breeding season.  Nectar is also a favorite from tubular flowers in any season.

This male icterid received its name from the colors on Lord Baltimore's coat of arms.  It was also once named the Northern Oriole until the name split with the Bullock's Oriole.  The two species will readily hybridize.

The passerine is located in the Nearctic during the summer, mostly in the eastern portion of the US.  Some of these birds have been known to spend winters in the southern states, but they also do the same as far north as Maine, where one spent two out of three winters in Downeast Maine.

These blackbirds enjoy tall trees but will not resort to forest living,. Their adaptability can keep them happy in riparian areas, parks, orchards, forest edges, or stands of trees along rivers, as well as other similar and suitable habitat. 

                                                             Male Baltimore Oriole
                                                           Boomer Lake Park, 2014

When paired, the female constructs the nest on the outer parts of limbs, an intricately woven basketlike pouched structure.  It is on a horizontal limb at a fork, and has been known to withstand hurricanes.  They prefer to nest in elm, oak, cottonwood, willow, maple, and apple trees, where the most insects congregate to feed on smaller bugs.

During migration, it is best to provide the darkest fruits possible, as well as an ample supply of water for drinking and bathing.  They also enjoy dark jellies and hummingbird and oriole feeders.

Raptors, other icterids, squirrels, and domestic cats are normal predators of this species, as well as their young.

To see more photos of the Baltimore Oriole with other birds on those days:

https://debhirt.blogspot.com/2016/06/pass-out-cigars-we-are-parents.html

https://debhirt.blogspot.com/2016/05/the-charge-of-boomer-brigade.html

https://debhirt.blogspot.com/2015/06/with-love-from-birdie.html

https://debhirt.blogspot.com/2015/06/birds-of-feather-photographed-together.html