Here's yet another sneak peek at what's coming next week with my Audubon's Birthday event, this time a freebie... an oriole nest. It's rendered here with a female Streak-backed Oriole (from my upcoming "Orioles of the New World"). The nest prop has a sizing morph to allow it to attach to various sized branches. This is one of three freebies (the other two; 3 species of cowbirds (shown in my "Bad Parents" image and a Fly Swatter (to help with my NW Flies set). Suspended like a basketball net from a high-up branch, an oriole nest stands out from any other North American bird’s. With hundreds of thin, intertwined fibers, the seemingly delicate cradle can carry up to seven eggs and last for months beyond its intended purpose—a testament to the skill and dedication of female orioles. A group of more than 20 species, New World orioles are often recognized by their vibrant yellow or orange bodies and jet-black accents. Their breeding seasons extend from April to July, though their nests can usually be seen well into fall. Male orioles might assist in the gathering of materials, but the craft of weaving the pouch-like nests is usually completed by the females.