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Counting Orioles

Students and youth groups are invited to join the Great Wisconsin Oriole Count this spring.

Baltimore Orioles are found throughout Wisconsin during the spring and summer. The orange and black birds are one of the most easily identifiable spring migrants that arrive here in early May and frequent a wide variety of habitats ¬– including feeders offering fruit and jelly. Simply set out oranges and grape jelly, and Orioles will come – even in urban settings.

Partners in Flight estimates there are as many as 470,000 Orioles in Wisconsin each year, or 4% of the global population.

The Wisconsin Society for Ornithology, Eagle Optics and Wild Birds Unlimited in Mequon teamed up to offer great incentives:

• The first 60 Oriole Count teams to set up a team page will receive a feeder that attracts birds with both fresh oranges and grape jelly.

• Two schools/groups will each receive five pairs of binoculars, a spotting scope, and tripod donated by Eagle Optics worth $1,100. Prizes will go to the team that raises the most money and a randomly selected team.

School and youth groups can learn more details and sign up for the count at wibirdathon.org.