Baltimore Oriole – 5/10/12

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 5/10/12

Observation Time: 7:00 p.m.

Observation Location: Gavins Pond Dam

Common Name: Baltimore Oriole

Scientific Name: Icterus galbula

Comments: First I heard the flutelike call, and then I spotted the brilliant orange oriole in an oak tree just pushing out its first leaves of spring. Even though it was 7:00 p.m. and the sun was low, the bird fairly glowed. I wonder how such a gaudy creature manages to escape the notice of hawks.

Orioles weave hanging nests, and feed on fruit, nectar and insects. They have a counterpart in the tropics called a troupial, which is slightly larger, but sings an uncannily similar song.

More Information: All About Birds