© David McDonald
Bullock's Oriole
Icterus bullockii
Family: (Icteridae) Blackbirds and Orioles
Preferred Habitat: Woodlands close to water
Seasonal Occurrence: Rare fall through spring.
Notes: Bullock's Orioles are a common breeder in west Texas. On the Upper Texas Coast they are rare visitors. Sightings generally occur September through April. They can be readily attracted to feeders, and have been known to return to the same yard for many winters in a row. Bullock's Orioles and Baltimore Orioles formerly were considered one species. The head pattern is the most noticeable difference, with male Baltimore Orioles having solid black heads. Female Bullock's Orioles have pale grayish-yellow plumage rather than orange with light gray bellies. They lack the male's black markings. Bullock's and Baltimore Orioles hybridize frequently.
- Susan Billetdeaux
