ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Orchard Oriole

Orchard Oriole

Photo by Richard Day/Daybreak Imagery

The Blackbird family probably contains more individuals than any other bird family in Ohio, but includes only a few species. This group of medium-sized walking birds has very diverse coloration and habits. The bill is long and pointed; the tail is usually rounded.

Although the orchard oriole is not as common and well known as the Baltimore oriole, it is not uncommon in much of Ohio. Likewise, these birds are not as conspicuous as the brilliant orange Baltimore.

Listen

Orchard Oriole

Icterus spurius

At-a-Glance

• Peak Breeding Activity: May-August

• Incubation: 12-14 days

• Clutch Size: 2-7 eggs

• Young Fledge: 11-14 days after hatching

• Typical Foods: insects and fruit

Description
Males have a chestnut colored body and a black head, wings, back, and tail. The female is yellow-green in color.

Habitat and Habits
The orchard oriole inhabits open areas with scattered trees and old fields with brushy thickets. Knowing the song of the orchard oriole is the best way to find them, as they usually lurk in dense growth. The rapid and variable complex of whistled notes almost always ends in a distinctive down-slurred note.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
Females build a hanging, cup-shaped nest in the fork of a small tree. Both parents care for the young.