Hooded orioles begin migration in early September

A male hooded oriole seen near Mission Viejo in August.  Photo by J.J. Meyer

Orioles breed in California during the spring and summer, then return to their winter grounds in Mexico, and Central and South America in the fall.  Bullock's orioles start leaving in July, while the hooded species generally stay with us until early September.

Attract orioles to your yard by planting native trees or shrubs with fruit and berries and flowering plants that attract caterpillars, a favorite food.  Orioles also visit fruit and nectar feeders.

Happy Birding!
J.J.