The Baltimore race is a sparkling colored harmonious oriole and is the state bird of Maryland. The male is black above and orange below, while the female is olive above and yellow, orange below; both the male and female have white bands on its wings and are about eight inches long. The Baltimore Oriole takes its common name from Sir George Calvert, first Baron of Baltimore. The monarchy granted the land north of the Potomac River to first Baron of Baltimore. Later this land became the state of Maryland. On Sir George's coat of arms there was the male oriole, and the early pioneers named the bird after Sir George.
The Baltimore Oriole's beak is long and pointed. Its wings are reasonably long and its tail is longer than 3/4 of the length of wings.
Song- Their song is cheerful and a sure sign that "Old Man Winter" lost his battle with "Mother Springtime." This amounts to about two or three call notes that hardly could be called a song. In mid August, about two weeks before it migrates south, the bird sings more often, especially in the early morning.
Habitat- Baltimore orioles favor places where big trees grow near open areas, like shady elm trees. Birders spotted the birds along country roads, orchards, city parks and suburban areas.
The Baltimore Oriole breeds in the eastern temperate zone of North America from Texas to the Carolinas. Also they inhabit areas along the Gulf Coast north to New Brunswick, Ontario and Manitoba. In Montana, Wyoming and Colorado you will see the Baltimore Oriole.
Nest- Their nest looks like a big hanging ornament at the end of large elm trees. The nest is a very well made sac of grasses and plant fibers. It is very strong but the bird won't use the same nest again. If large elm trees are not in their habitat they will nest on a large variety of trees available even the conifers. The excellence of their labors is proved by the fact that some nests have lasted through the winds and blows of four winters.
It now becomes necessary to explain that it is Lady Baltimore and not his lordship who designs and makes this picturesque and appropriate habitation. It appears while "My Lady" toils, his lordship does nothing much but sit around and whistle and look gorgeous. Also "My Lady" shows herself a very practical house wife by making use of material now at hand. The Orioles use grass, plant fiber and other materials while nest building. She also uses any kind of fabric to reinforce the nest. She uses any string, twine, and strips of cloth and paper available.
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