Maryland State Bird: Baltimore Oriole
Fact-checked • Updated November 25, 2025
Maryland State Bird – Baltimore Oriole
Maryland designated the Baltimore Oriole as its state bird in 1947. No other state selected this species. Orange and black plumage matches colors used in the Calvert family coat of arms. Early settlers noted the same pattern. Birds appear across Maryland in warmer months as forests and parks fill with activity.
Why Maryland Chose the Baltimore Oriole as State Bird
Maryland made the Baltimore Oriole (Icterus galbula) its official state bird in 1947. The legislature formalized a bird long associated with the state. Colonists had used the name since the 1600s.
No other state shares the Baltimore Oriole. Maryland alone claims this species. Few state birds remain exclusive to a single state.
Orange and black feathers match the Calvert family coat of arms. Early colonists noticed this resemblance in the 1600s. Lord Baltimore's family colors appeared on Maryland's founding documents. The bird's common name came from this connection.
Orioles return each spring from Central America. You see them in late April or early May. Warm weather follows their arrival. Gardens and parks host nesting pairs through summer.
Clear, flute-like songs carry through neighborhoods and woodlands. Males whistle from treetops during breeding season. Residents recognize these notes each spring.
History of Adoption: How the Oriole Became Maryland's Symbol
-
Colonial Roots
Early settlers noticed local orange-and-black birds resembled Calvert family heraldic colors. This connection linked the species to Maryland's founding identity. The name Baltimore bird appeared in early writings.
-
Growing Recognition
By the 1800s, the name Baltimore Oriole was widely used. Naturalists and ornithologists recognized the species as distinctive. The bird was tied closely to Maryland history.
-
Public Support
Garden clubs, birdwatchers, and naturalists promoted the oriole as state bird. Its name, colors, and cultural visibility made it a clear favorite.
-
Official Adoption
Maryland adopted the Baltimore Oriole in 1947. The designation appeared in state statutes. The bird has remained the official symbol ever since.
-
Taxonomic Note
Scientists briefly grouped the Baltimore Oriole with Bullock's Oriole as Northern Oriole. Later research restored the Baltimore Oriole as a distinct species.
What the Baltimore Oriole Represents
Connection to Maryland's Heritage
The oriole's colors mirror the Calvert family coat of arms. This links the bird directly to Maryland's founding identity.
Seasonal Renewal
Orioles return each spring, symbolizing the end of winter. Their arrival is a celebrated annual event in Maryland.
Natural Beauty
The bright orange and deep black make the species visually iconic. It is one of the most striking birds in eastern North America.
Musical Identity
Clear, whistled notes echo through forests and neighborhoods. The species' song contributes to Maryland's appreciation for music and arts.
Sports Connection
Maryland's Major League Baseball team shares the oriole's name and colors. This reinforces its role as a cultural symbol.
Physical Characteristics of the Baltimore Oriole
Male Appearance
Adult males show brilliant orange undersides with a black head. Black also covers the back and wings. White wing bars stand out against dark wings. The tail displays orange and black.
Female Appearance
Females are softer yellow-orange with gray-brown upperparts. Their subtler coloration provides camouflage during nesting.
Size and Build
Orioles are slender songbirds around seven inches long. Pointed bills help them catch insects and sip nectar.
Bill Structure
The sharp, slightly curved bill helps capture caterpillars. It also probes flowers and feeds on ripe fruit.
Juvenile Plumage
Young birds resemble adult females in their first year. Males gradually gain brighter orange plumage by their second spring.
Behavior & Habits of the Baltimore Oriole
Song
Males sing rich, whistled phrases that sound like clear flute notes. Each bird produces unique variations.
Spring Arrival
The species arrives in Maryland in late April. Males typically return before females to establish nesting territories.
Nest Building
Females weave distinctive hanging basket nests from plant fibers and grasses. These nests often hang high in tall shade trees.
Breeding
Clutches usually contain four to five eggs. Females incubate while males provide food. Young birds fledge within two weeks.
Feeding
Orioles eat caterpillars, beetles, nectar, and ripe fruit. They visit feeders stocked with orange slices or grape jelly.
Migration
After the breeding season, orioles migrate to Mexico and Central America. Some reach northern South America for winter.
Daily Rhythm
They forage actively in mornings and evenings. They rest in shaded areas during the hottest parts of day.
Habitat & Conservation
Where They Live
Baltimore Orioles breed across Maryland in parks, neighborhoods, and woodlands. They need areas with mature shade trees. They are especially common in spring and summer.
Habitat Needs
Tall deciduous trees, open canopies, and access to food sources are essential. They need insects and fruit for nesting and foraging.
Conservation Status
The species is listed as Least Concern globally. Populations remain generally stable. Local declines can occur where habitat is lost.
Population Trends
Long-term surveys show slight declines in some regions. Habitat changes and reduced caterpillar availability affect populations.
Threats
Pesticides, habitat loss, window collisions, and severe weather events pose risks. Migration weather events are especially dangerous.
How to Help
- Plant native shade trees
- Offer orange halves or grape jelly in spring
- Avoid pesticides
- Keep outdoor cats away from nesting areas
- Provide clean water sources
- Support local habitat conservation programs
Interesting Facts About the Baltimore Oriole
Fact 1 of 12
Maryland adopted the Baltimore Oriole as state bird in 1947
Baltimore Oriole Songs & Calls
Hear the clear whistles and sharp calls of the Baltimore Oriole. These field recordings capture their distinctive voice in natural habitat.
Audio licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
Sources & References
This article has been researched using authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. All information has been fact-checked and verified against official government records and scientific databases.
Official state documentation on state symbols. • Accessed: November 30, 2025
Scientific profile with behavior, ecology, and identification. • Accessed: November 30, 2025
Habitat, range maps, and conservation information. • Accessed: November 30, 2025
General overview of biology, taxonomy, and history. • Accessed: November 30, 2025
Accuracy Commitment: We strive to maintain accurate and up-to-date information. If you notice any errors or outdated information, please contact us.