With an estimated population of over 12 million, the Baltimore Oriole remains relatively common. However, the species has experienced a slow but steady decline of approximately 36% since 1966. This trend is largely attributed to habitat loss through deforestation and the widespread use of insecticides.
Often heard before they are seen, male Baltimore Orioles are known for their rich, whistling songs that are unmistakable once learned. A favourite at backyard feeders, they are especially fond of sliced oranges and fruit jellies. Planting native shrubs and flowering plants can help attract these birds to your yard.
In the westernmost parts of their range, Baltimore Orioles may interbreed with Bullock’s Orioles, producing hybrids. Females have more subdued colouring compared to the males, and young males don’t acquire their signature bright orange and black plumage until their second year.
Orioles typically favour forest edges, where they benefit from dense foliage for nesting and foraging and nearby open grassy areas for additional foraging.
They are medium- to long-distance migrants. In Eastern Canada and the United States, they arrive between early April and late May, then return to their wintering grounds in Florida, the Caribbean, eastern Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America.
Baltimore Oriole
Icterus galbula
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STATUS: Low Concern
With an estimated population of over 12 million, the Baltimore Oriole remains relatively common. However, the species has experienced a slow but steady decline of approximately 36% since 1966. This trend is largely attributed to habitat loss through deforestation and the widespread use of insecticides.
Often heard before they are seen, male Baltimore Orioles are known for their rich, whistling songs that are unmistakable once learned. A favourite at backyard feeders, they are especially fond of sliced oranges and fruit jellies. Planting native shrubs and flowering plants can help attract these birds to your yard.
In the westernmost parts of their range, Baltimore Orioles may interbreed with Bullock’s Orioles, producing hybrids.
Females have more subdued colouring compared to the males, and young males don’t acquire their signature bright orange and black plumage until their second year.
Orioles typically favour forest edges, where they benefit from dense foliage for nesting and foraging and nearby open grassy areas for additional foraging.
They are medium- to long-distance migrants. In Eastern Canada and the United States, they arrive between early April and late May, then return to their wintering grounds in Florida, the Caribbean, eastern Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America.
Information credit: allaboutbirds. Org
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