Orioles at Middle Lake, Golden Gate Park, San Francico, California 6 March 2004

The two photos on the left are the same immature male with a fairly well defined bib. The bird above has a much more poorly defined bib. Another individual is intermediate between these two, with a full bib, but a more ragged lower border to it than the one on the left. These birds were originally reported as Hooded Orioles. However a number of observers now believe they are probably Orchard Orioles. All birds appeared to be the same size, slightly longer than House Finch, but slimmer. The tail and bill seem short for Hooded Oriole. The birds occasionally give a "chuck" call, but have not been heard to give a "wheeet" call as far as I know. All comments and opinions are welcome. Photos © 2004 Joseph Morlan. All rights reserved.