Birds of Cuba, Vagrant Visitors, Introduced Birds and Possibilities
Baltimore Oriole
Oriole de Baltimore
Icterus galbula
Life, Habitat & Pictures of the Baltimore Oriole
| B L | W W | W | Family | Latin Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8.75" 22.2cm | 11.5" 29.2cm | 1.2oz 34g | Icteridae | Icterus galbula (1) |
Species: The Baltimore Oriole (Icterus galbula), known as one of the two sub-species of the "Northern Oriole", the other being the Bullock's Oriole, was given its name from George Calvert, Lord Baltimore, whose dress reflected the same colourations. This is the state bird of Maryland.
Distinctions: Breeds throughout the eastern parts of North America, west as far as western areas of Alberta. This is mostly likely the only orange bird seen north of most of southern US states. It can be confused with the Bullock's Oriole, the difference being the Baltimore Oriole has an all-black head and lesser white feathering on the wings. Females of the two species are very similar. More of an overall orange tone than green, when compared to the female Bullock's Oriole.
Voice: Clear flute-like whistle, carried by single and double notes, very pleasant to the ear.
Nesting: Four to six greyish eggs, with brown and black coloured spots. Orioles build their nest high in the crowns of trees. These nests are very recognizable, seen as hanging baskets that are woven together using plant fibres, bark from branches, string and any other such materials that can be manipulated to form a nest attached to swaying limbs.
Distribution: The Baltimore Oriole can be found from Florida to Nova Scotia, west to the start of the Rocky Mountains and south through parts of northeastern Texas during the nesting season. In winter, they migrate into the southern states, Mexico, Central and South America. It is a seen as a vagrant in Cuba."