Where to see Orioles in Britain

On passage
As a migratory species, orioles are recorded annually at coastal bird observatories, mostly on the south coast. In autumn, after the fledging of the young, individual birds and sometimes family parties may be seen foraging anywhere around the general breeding area, for example, in orchards and mature gardens.

During the breeding season
All the known breeding sites of orioles in fenland are on private land, which means that the locations are kept confidential and are not accessible. The place where you are most likely to be able to see orioles during the breeding season is at the RSPB Reserve in Lakenheath, Suffolk, where 2-3 pairs breed most years. At the moment there is no public access to the reserve itself, but good views of the birds can often be obtained from the riverbank, especially during courtship and nestbuilding and, after incubation, during feeding and fledging of young. As with many other species, early mornings and late afternoons are the best times.

Directions
From Mildenhall-to-Brandon road, the A1065, take westerly turn at north end of RAF Lakenheath USAF airbase to T-junction with the B1112. Turn right to Lakenheath Station. The RSPB carpark is on the left just beyond the station crossing. Park and follow the marked footpath for approximately one mile along the top of the river bank. Click here to see a map of the area.

A plea
Stay on the footpath, and do not enter the reserve. In the unlikely event that you locate a nest, PLEASE keep this information to yourself - eggers are still active in the area - and, as soon as you can, let the GOG Secretary Jake Allsop know so that he can liaise with the Warden at Lakenheath to arrange surveillance.