Elusive orioles are often found near palms and woodlands

Orioles visit nectar feeders but they’re skittish around humans. 

Photo by Ken Carrier

       Hooded and Bullock's orioles are the two most common species of orioles that breed in Southern California.  Both are medium-sized songbirds, about 8-inches long with slender bodies, long tail and a long, curved beak. They belong to the same family as blackbirds, grackles and cowbirds.
       Orioles nest in California during the spring and summer, then return to their winter grounds in Mexico, and Central and South America in the fall.  Read more about orioles in my latest Backyard Birder column in  The Orange County Register.
       Happy Birding!
       J.J.