Baltimore Oriole in August
Where Baltimore orioles are in August, whether they are nesting, and the best foods to offer right now.
August in the Baltimore Oriole's year
August feels like summer but the year has turned. Southbound migration is quietly underway, many adults are molting into fresh plumage, and family groups are breaking up. Late nesters are still feeding young in the North while southern birds are already drifting toward wintering grounds.
For the Baltimore Oriole specifically, August is a summer month of relative routine, with the species settled into its seasonal pattern across its range. Across the 38 states and provinces where Baltimore orioles occur, what the bird is doing this month depends heavily on latitude — the details below break it down by band.
Where Baltimore orioles are in August
- Southern states
- absent
- Mid-latitudes
- summer breeder
- Northern states & Canada
- absent
In August, Baltimore orioles are absent in the South, summer breeder across the mid-latitudes, and absent in the northern states and Canada. That north–south split is the defining feature of this month: where you live changes which version of this bird you're looking at.
Nesting in August
Baltimore orioles are not nesting in August. The season runs May–July at mid-latitudes, and up to a month later in the North.
Outside the nesting season, Baltimore orioles put their energy into feeding and flocking rather than territory and young — which is exactly what makes them easier to watch and attract this month.
What to feed in August
- Tent caterpillars and gypsy moth larvae
Put orange halves out the week orioles are due back — they stay where they find food on arrival.
Molting birds look scruffy and often skulk — don't be surprised if familiar visitors briefly vanish. Keep water fresh in the heat.
Full Baltimore Oriole diet guide → · Best feeder for Baltimore orioles →
Watching Baltimore orioles this month
Baltimore orioles are settled and predictable in August, which makes this a good month to learn the bird's routine — same feeders, same perches, same times of day.
The state guides below show exactly where in your region Baltimore orioles are expected this month and which native plants hold them in a yard.
Baltimore Oriole month by month
Baltimore Oriole by state
Frequently asked
Where are Baltimore orioles in August?
In August, Baltimore orioles are absent in the South, summer breeder across mid-latitudes and absent in the North.
Do Baltimore orioles nest in August?
No — Baltimore orioles typically nest May through July at mid-latitudes.
What do Baltimore orioles eat in August?
Tent caterpillars and gypsy moth larvae.
Sources
- Baltimore Oriole — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Baltimore Oriole life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Baltimore Oriole — Audubon Guide to North American Birds
Timing reflects typical patterns for the region as a whole; local dates vary with elevation and year. Check the linked eBird bar charts for your county.