We’re on day 4 of our Birds theme week. Today we’re talking about another bird you’ve probably seen in your yard (especially if you put out grape jelly or oranges) – the Baltimore Oriole. These migrating birds were named for Lord Baltimore, an English nobleman who was one of Maryland’s first administrators because their orange and black coloring matched his coat of arms. In the summer months, Baltimore Orioles are widespread here in the Eastern U.S. In the winter, they migrate to the sunnier and warmer climates from Mexico to South America and even some islands in the Caribbean. Unlike other fruit-eating birds, Baltimore Orioles seem to prefer only the darkest, ripest fruits, including mulberries, cherries, and grapes. Their nests are pretty incredible, a basket-like structure that hangs from branches 30 feet in the air. The females weave the nests together using any strong fibers they can find. The nests are so sturdy that they can sometimes be used again after Orioles return from their winter grounds months later. Learn more here.