Watercolor portrait of Hooded Oriole (Icterus cucullatus)

Hooded Oriole

Icterus cucullatus
Hooded Orioles breed mainly in the south… Look for it in open woodlands, desert ed… Fairly common Rich whistled song

Learn to identify the Hooded Oriole by ear. Master the "weet-tew tew-turee!" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.

“weet-tew tew-turee!”

What the Hooded Oriole sounds like

A slim, flame-orange oriole with a black face and bib, the Hooded Oriole looks like a splash of sunset in the trees. It moves with quick, lively energy, slipping through palm fronds and flowering branches while giving sharp whistles and chatty calls.

“weet-tew tew-turee!”

How to tell it apart

Listen for:A bright series of ringing whistles and slurred notes, cheerful and fluid. It often comes from the top of a palm or flowering tree. Often written as “weet-tew tew-turee!”.
Don't confuse with:The Bullock's Oriole — male bullock's shows a black line through the eye rather than a full black hood.

Where you'll hear it

Look for it in open woodlands, desert edges, parks, and neighborhoods with tall palms, flowering trees, or dense ornamentals. In the Southwest, palm-lined streets and gardens are prime spots.

Spring is the best time to hear singing males as they return and claim nesting spots in palms. By late summer and fall, families wander more quietly through neighborhoods and desert washes before many head south.

Similar species

Bullock's Oriole

Male Bullock's shows a black line through the eye rather than a full black hood.

Scott's Oriole

Scott's male is black and bright yellow, not orange.

Streak-backed Oriole

Streak-backed is larger and heavier-billed, with obvious black streaking on the back.

Hooded Oriole song FAQ

What does a Hooded Oriole sound like?
A bright series of ringing whistles and slurred notes, cheerful and fluid. It often comes from the top of a palm or flowering tree. Listen for the "weet-tew tew-turee!" phrase.
How do I tell a Hooded Oriole from a Bullock's Oriole by sound?
Bullock's Oriole: Male Bullock's shows a black line through the eye rather than a full black hood.; Bullock's has a straighter bill and often uses more open deciduous trees than palms.; Females can be tricky, but Bullock's usually looks plainer-faced and less associated with palm plantings..
When is the best time to hear a Hooded Oriole?
Spring is the best time to hear singing males as they return and claim nesting spots in palms. By late summer and fall, families wander more quietly through neighborhoods and desert washes before many head south.