By: Sally Siko

One of the joys of summertime birding is to find a family of Orchard Orioles hunting for insects and berries in the field.
I’ve had the pleasure of seeing several this year while leading tours. It’s always a thrill to show off these beauties to my guests!

Measuring around 6.5 inches long the Orchard Oriole is the smallest species of oriole in North America. Although they look somewhat similar to their brightly colored cousin the Baltimore Oriole, male Orchard Orioles are more chestnut-reddish toned than the familiar bright orange of the Baltimore.
The female Orchards are equally stunning dressed in their yellow and tan plumage.

Look for Orchards foraging low to the ground along the tree lines near and in open tall grass fields containing scrub brush.
They one of the earliest-departing species after nesting as their departure for winter migration takes place in late July and August here in central North Carolina.
You’ve still got a couple of months left to see them so get out there while you can!

Photos by @sally_siko of @bestlife_birding on my beloved full frame 50MP beast, the mighty @canonusa #5Ds