Song of the Baltimore Oriole

A male Baltimore Oriole visited our yard again today.  I heard him before I saw him, as he was loudly singing his low-flutelike song in the plum tree right off the deck. I was able to capture a recording of his rich, beautiful song. (Click twice on the small forward arrow)

Both male and female orioles sing. Songs are "given between males in territory formation and between males and females during courtship". (Stokes Nature Guide to Bird Behavior) 

Orioles are most often seen in treetops, poking through trees like this birch for caterpillers and other insects like beetles and wasps. This digiscoped image was taken during his last visit a couple days ago.

Orioles can be attracted to an oriole feeder filled with nectar (1 part sugar to 6 parts water), fruit (orange halves), and even grape jelly (in small amounts so they and other birds don't immerse themselves in it).

The oriole is an infrequent visitor in my yard, so I especially relish its brilliant orange and black coloration and its beautiful song.  Read more about Baltimore Orioles on rightbird, Wild Birds Unlimited's Online Field Guide.

Comments

[The Zen Birdfeeder]

Abby - Hi and welcome! The oriole here has been staying longer than in years past. I might try the grapes. He's singing right now!!! Thanks again for your visit and comment.

[abby]

this spring the baltimore oriole here adores my offering of actual grapes. the firsts ones to find them were the catbirds and mockingbirds, and then he noticed the traffic, i think. he's been at the grapes at least 5 times a day. :) good luck with your orioles!