How to Identify Bullock's Orioles

In the western half of North America, if you see a black and orange bird perched on a shade tree or flying around in a park, you probably have seen Bullock's Oriole. However, to positively identify these birds, there are several things that you should look for.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Review and take note of the habitat of Bullock's Oriole. The oriole lives in the western half of North America and as far east as parts of Texas. Look for them in places where shade trees are common or in deciduous woodlands, towns and parks.

2. Note the appearance of Bullock's Oriole, with its orange head, a black crown and a black eye line. Their wings are black with large white patches. Their underparts are orange, and they have a fan-shaped tail and rounded wings. Female Bullock's Orioles have yellow heads and throats, unlike the orange heads and throats of the male.

3. Observe the size of the Bullock's Oriole. The average Bullock is 7 or 8 inces long, weighs around an ounce and have a wingspan of 11 or 12 inches.

4. Listen to the songs and calls of the Bullock's Oriole. The call of the Bullock's Oriole is harsh in nature, sounding like "cheh." The song of the Bullock's Oriole is also harsh and contains various sounds and whistles.

5. View the direct flight pattern of the Bullock's Oriole. The bird flies swiftly and exhibits rapid wing beats during flight.

Tips & Warnings

• Sometimes there is cross-over in the central part of the United States between the habitats of the Baltimore Oriole and the Bullock's Oriole. The Baltimore Oriole is primarily an Eastern bird.

Resources

• All About Birds from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.