The Northern Oriole is the former name given to two separate species of Oriole, originally thought to be the same species. The confusion occurred because the two birds were seen interbreeding where their ranges overlapped. The Baltimore Oriole (eastern North America) and Bullocks Oriole (western North America). Very similar in appearance though the Baltimore Oriole is larger, the males are a vibrant bright orange and black, the females are more subdued with a yellow brown and orange coloration. They have a long pointed bill and feed predominantly on insects, fruit and nectar. Orioles are also famous for their distinctive hanging nests, usually suspended from the tips of tree branches. A typical clutch of eggs is around 4-5. Occupying much of North America both species breed in North America and winter farther south in Mexico, Central America and the southern United States.

1. Females are responsible for weaving the pouch like nests from plant fibers, grasses and other materials.
2. The Baltimore Oriole is the state bird of Maryland and the birds bright orange and black colors inspired the name of the Baltimore Orioles baseball team.
3. In modern bird watching guides you will find Baltimore Oriole and Bullocks Oriole listed separately rather than under the old name "Northern Oriole"

• Length: 17-22cm
• Wingspan: 23-30cm
• Habitat: Open woodland, forest edges, riverside groves and parks
• Diet: Insects, fruit and nectar