What is the state bird of Maryland?
The Baltimore Oriole, Icterus galbula, named Maryland's state bird in 1947. No other state has chosen it.
- State bird
- Baltimore Oriole
- Scientific name
- Icterus galbula
- Year adopted
- 1947
- Shared with
- No other state
- Status in Maryland
- a summer resident that nests here
- Nesting season here
- May–July
- Size
- 6.7–7.5 in, 1.1–1.4 oz
Why Maryland chose the Baltimore Oriole
The male's orange and black matched the coat of arms of the Calverts, the Lords Baltimore who founded the Maryland colony, which is how the bird got its name.
Seeing a Baltimore Oriole in Maryland
In Maryland the Baltimore Oriole is a summer resident that nests here. Male flaming orange with a black hood and back. Female yellow-orange with grey-brown wings. Rich, flute-like whistled phrases.
Frequently asked
What is the state bird of Maryland?
The Baltimore Oriole (Icterus galbula), adopted in 1947.
When did Maryland choose its state bird?
1947.
Do other states have the same state bird as Maryland?
No. Maryland is the only state with the Baltimore Oriole.
Can you see the Baltimore Oriole in Maryland all year?
In Maryland it is a summer resident that nests here. Nesting runs about May to July.
Adoption years from state archives and statutes as compiled in the List of U.S. state birds.