Hooded Oriole
Scientific Name: Icterus cucullatus
The Hooded Oriole, Icterus cucullatus, is a vibrant bird species that adds a splash of color to the Huntington Beach area. Males display bright yellow plumage with contrasting black bibs and hoods, while females have more subdued yellow-green coloring. Their melodious songs can be heard echoing through gardens and parks during the breeding season from late spring to early summer. Hooded Orioles are primarily insectivorous but also feed on nectar from flowers, especially from native plants like the California Fuchsia. They are summer visitors to the region, migrating to warmer climates during the winter months.