Gene Stratton-Porter, a naturalist in the early years of the 20th century, described the Baltimore oriole as “spilling notes of molten sweetness, as it shot like a ray of detached sunshine.” It’s true, nothing brightens a day like this member of the blackbird family, thanks to its striking orange breast, black head and white-barred wings, plus its bold, melodic call.
Baltimore orioles are one of eight orioles found in North America. Its relatives are Bullock’s, orchard, spot-breasted, hooded, Audubon’s, Scott’s and Altamira. Where the ranges of Bullock’s and Baltimore overlap in the Midwest, the two sometimes interbreed.
About 8 inches long, with a 9-to 12-inch wingspan, Baltimores are medium-sized songbirds. Like all other blackbirds, they have a thick, pointed bill. The male’s vibrant underparts, shoulders and rump can vary from…
