Friday, November 28, 2008

Friday's Feathers: Spot-breasted Orioles, Redux


Today's Friday's Feathers belong to the Spot-breasted Oriole.

I know I posted some photos of Spot-breasted Orioles last month, but either they've grown up really fast, or this is a pair of adults. I just love these guys, so indulge me...



These birds are actually natives of south-coastal Mexico and Central America. They were introduced into southeastern Florida in the 1940's, where they became established. Populations are reportedly declining since the '80's, cause: unknown. Although you couldn't tell that by my yard!

They're dedicated suburbanites, hanging out in shrubs and small trees, eating insects and berries, and sipping nectar. Which I guess is why they seem to be attracted to this corner of the yard. I still don't know what that small tree with the tiny white flowers is, but the lower shrub is a Pavonia Bahamensis, a Bahamian relative of the hibiscus. Both are great favorites of the bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, so it stands to reason. Look at that guy in the bottom photo, with his (her?) schnozz buried in that Pavonia flower!

Please visit other Friday's Feathers posts here.

5 comments:

Daisy said...

I don't think I have ever seen a bird that color before!

david mcmahon said...

I really like the third frame!

Cathy said...

Beautful birds--thanks for posting these! Their coloring reminds me of the Streak-Backed Oriole that shows up here in the Valley every winter--a rare one that gets all birders aflutter when they hear that it's shown up.

Anonymous said...

I've never seen them before..what beautiful birds though...

Anonymous said...

Such beautiful birds. Thank you for sharing them. (Sorry I'm late gettiing here this week - work is the curse of the blogging class)

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