Mellow Yellow
While visiting friends, I enjoyed their backyard birds. A pair of Hooded Orioles (Icterus cucullatus) had set up their nest site beneath a Banana Tree leaf.
3 May 2009, Hooded Oriole nest in a residential area near Balboa Park
The male stood out as the agitated and nervous sentry, defending the territory against pesky Towhees in the area.
And he remained vigilant until sunset.
A couple of weeks later, I visited again, and I was happy to see (and hear) that Orioles were successful.
20 May 2009
Both he and the hen frequented Lisa’s hummingbird feeder, but at this moment there was a need for protein.
While we enjoyed our dinner on the patio, he hustled to find the dinner for his clutch. He did not seem to be bothered by our presence.
Put that in your crop.
I am the Finch Wench 
Very well done. Hoodies are always nice to see and hear. Sounds like a House Finch calling. Have at least a pair in my yard in Rainbow Valley. Thank you.
Nice captures. The intricacy of the nest is fascinating. On your next visit to your friends, hope the young and female show up for their photo opportunities! May the birds be with you!
The female did make some limited appearances on the first day, but I did not see her on the second visit, by which time chicks could be heard.
Hi, loved the pics. I live in Carlsbad and plant tomatoes every year. Organic tomatoes are easy when a family of “Hoodies” clean up the tomato worms on a daily basis.
My friend does have impressive herb and vegetable gardens, so maybe that was part of the appeal of her Banana Tree “real estate.”
Great photos. Your friends are so lucky to have such a beautiful pair of birds in their yard.
And I am lucky to have such friends! Actually, the neighbor behind me has a Banana Tree, and I saw a male Hooded Oriole there recently. I could not find a nest, though.