Species-Specific Management (SSM)

Northern or Baltimore Oriole

Orioles are colorful, energetic songbirds that are indigenous to the southern Appalachian forests and most of the continental United States. Since they are very versatile and adaptable, creating a suitable environment in which they may reside is fairly easy. Two races, eastern and western, were recognized in 1996 and collectively called the Northern oriole. Here are suggestions of ways to attract and support a population of the Baltimore oriole (Icterus galbula).

1. Since orioles are migratory, resources need only be provided during the spring and summer months while they are nesting and preparing to migrate.
2. Orioles tend to prefer fairly open, orchard-types of broadleaf forest habitats. Planting of fruit trees (apple, cherry, and peach) and favoring trees (birch, willow, and elm) will provide suitable nesting habitat as well as a supplemental food supply.
3. Provide additional food by impaling pieces of fresh fruit (oranges are a favorite) on nails hammered into trees around the area.
4. Since insects make up a substantial part of orioles' diets, maintain a diverse forest canopy with many ages in which insects are abundant. Girdling one or more trees (scattered) especially in riparian areas can encourage or attract abundant diverse insects.
5. Provide a variety of full-sized shade trees from which the birds may choose when selecting a nesting site. Providing nest boxes is not necessary. They build hanging nests (basket-like).
6. Avoid using any types of herbicides and insecticides in the area, since insect-eating birds tend to accumulate such toxins in their bodies when they eat contaminated food items.
7. Do not allow pets or children to disturb the birds, especially when they are nesting. Orioles are highly aggressive and vigorously defend nest sites.
8. Provide either a pedestal or hanging bird bath to provide drinking and bathing water. A bird bath will also be likely to attract many other species besides orioles.
9. Keep records on the number of orioles seen and the location of the sightings. If any areas are used more frequently, expand those areas (if possible) to provide more of the preferred habitat.

A contribution of Eric Pflaging (1992), Department of Fisheries and Wildlife Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061

This Web site is maintained by R. H. Giles, Jr.
Last revision January 17, 2000.