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Baltimore Oriole Identification

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The Four Keys to ID

  • Size & Shape

    Smaller and more slender than an American Robin, Baltimore Orioles are medium-sized, sturdy-bodied songbirds with thick necks and long legs. Look for their long, thick-based, pointed bills, a hallmark of the blackbird family they belong to.

    Relative Size

    About the size of a Red-winged Blackbird, but slimmer.

    Relative Sizerobin sizedrobin-sized

    Measurements
    • Both Sexes
      • Length: 6.7-7.5 in (17-19 cm)
      • Weight: 1.1-1.4 oz (30-40 g)
      • Wingspan: 9.1-11.8 in (23-30 cm)

Regional Differences

In central North America—including Kansas, Nebraska, Saskatchewan, and Alberta—the Baltimore Oriole’s range overlaps with its close relative the Bullock’s Oriole, and the two species breed with each other. Their hybrid offspring—brighter orange than a typical Bullock’s, but duller than a typical Baltimore—can confuse bird watchers.