Bullock’s Oriole: The Brilliant Songbird with a Hanging Nest

The Bullock’s oriole is a medium-sized songbird with strikingly bright coloring. It is best known for its distinctive suspended nest, which it weaves in broadleaf trees and tall bushes. The species especially favors trees and shrubs that grow with plenty of space between them, particularly along stream banks, field margins, and other open areas.

Distribution in Oregon

In Oregon, Bullock’s orioles range from uncommon to locally fairly numerous as breeding birds. They are most often associated with major river corridors and areas surrounding farms and rural homesteads. Across the state, they have their broadest distribution in southwestern and northeastern Oregon. Derby Road in Jackson County is one location where they can be found.

Nesting and Diet

Bullock’s orioles generally select tall, branching broadleaf trees growing in relatively open settings. Cottonwoods and maples are among their preferred nesting trees. The nest is typically positioned near the end of a branch and is woven from materials such as plant fibers, hair, fine grasses, and moss. It is securely attached to the supporting twigs along both sides and the upper portion of the nest.

Insects make up the main part of the Bullock’s oriole’s diet, providing an important source of food during the breeding season.