Things are slowing down for many birders this time of year with spring migration over and many fledglings venturing away from the nest.  Toni and I had been following a couple of Baltimore Oriole (BAOR) nests on Presque Isle.  It’s amazing how quickly the hatchlings grow into fledglings!  Another thing I find amazing  is the consistency with which these events occur.  I followed a BAOR nest on my property last year and the last babe fledged on June 18th.  That is the exact date our friend and friend of Presque Isle, Sam Stull, watched the last BAOR leave the nest.  Those last few days were very blustery but that didn’t stop these little ones .

Proud Papa oriole listens and looks in on his brood.

Mama Oriole feeds the brood.

A "hairdo" only a mother could love.

Feeding the young is a full time job for both parents.

Papa with a nice juicy bug! Mmmm, good!

Young orioles usually fledge within 11-14 days after hatching.  This youngster ventured out at an estimated day 10 and flew back into the comfy nest.  All of the young have fledged long before this was posted.  We hope to see them back next year or the year after with broods of their own.

That's all folks!!