The question that most people ask when they want to purchase or construct an oriole feeder is this: “Where should oriole feeders be placed?”
This article will hopefully address this important question and give you a simple guideline on how to choose the best location to place your feeder.
Where Should Oriole Feeders Be Placed?
Identification
There are many different types of orioles, but they all share some common features. Orioles are typically small to medium-sized birds with orange and black colored plumage. There are several different species of oriole, but the Baltimore Oriole is the most well-known.
- Length: 6.3-7.9 in (16-20 cm)
- Weight: 1.1-1.4 oz (31-41 g)
- Wingspan: 8.7-12.2 in (22-31 cm)
Distribution Range
Orioles can be found almost anywhere in North America. Their range extends from the Atlantic Ocean southward through central and southern Illinois, into the upper Midwest states and the south-central states, and further into eastern Oklahoma, Texas, and even Canada.
Bird Feeder Types
There are many types of feeders to attract orioles, but I find the Stokes Select Deluxe Oriole Bird Feeder works great. It’s not messy and is easy to maintain and keep clean, and it will deter ants and bees and will not attract rodents. You can find it on Amazon.
*Make sure that whichever bird feeder you use, that it is placed out of direct sunlight.
Best Spot for Feeders
The next step, after finding the oriole feeders, you need to find out where the best places to put them in your backyard.
The best spot for oriole feeders is somewhere in the middle of the yard, where they cannot easily be disturbed. You should make sure that the area has some shade, is not too close to trees. Feeders in your garden also have to be sturdy enough to withstand all weather conditions and should not swing or sway.
If you are in an area that experiences a lot of heat and humidity, then it may be a good idea to place bird feeders in areas of your yard that are cool in summer and warm in winter.
Your garden feeder should be placed where it will not cause condensation. This will cause the food to rot.
Providing Nectar for your Feeder
Another easiest method is to purchase a ready-made concentrate made specifically for orioles and hummingbirds. The great thing about this is you don’t have to boil water and mix sugars, and is really no mess.
A good product is the First Nature Oriole Nectar. You can get it on Amazon.
The next method is the homemade mix. You can find the recipe below.
Homemade Nectar Mix:
Homemade nectar is very easy to do. First, you will first need these two ingredients, granulated sugar and water. Boil the water and then slowly stir in the granulated sugar.
Once the sugar dissolved, you can remove it and let the mixture it cools down. You can then fill up your feeder and hang it outdoors.
Recipe:
- 2 cups water
- 1/3 cup sugar
Fruits that Attract Orioles
While they do enjoy insects, they also like fruits. You can purchase special oriole bird feeders that have built-in fruit holders, or you can simply offer sliced oranges or grape jelly on a plate. Whatever you do, make sure the food is fresh and that there is plenty of it.
Orioles are known to be very territorial and will often chase away other birds from their feeding area. Orioles love oranges and are attracted to the orange color.
They will also eat grapes or grape jelly, banana, berries, apples, apricots, pears, nectarines, prunes, melons, crab apples and guava. The most popular method is cutting the oranges in halves.
Keep your Feeder Clean
Orioles are attracted to cleanliness and will often avoid dirty feeders. To keep your feeder clean, empty it out every few days and give it a good scrubbing with soap and water.
You should also regularly check the bird seed for mold or other contaminants. A dirty, unkept feeder can attract many unwanted pests like ants and worms and can also cause them to get sick.
Frequently Asked Questions
How high off the ground should an Oriole feeder be?
Many people place their oriole feeder too low for some of these birds to reach it comfortably. It’s best to hang an oriole feeder from at least 8 feet off the ground.
What time of day do Orioles feed?
These birds like to feed early in the morning on insects such as ants, spiders, beetles, caterpillars and flies. Orioles can be spotted eating fruit at nighttime or midday when they roost in trees.
What birds are attracted to Oriole feeders?
There are many types of birds that will be attracted to an Oriole feeder. Northern mockingbirds, summer tanagers, scarlet tanagers, rose-breasted grosbeaks and finches all enjoy the sweet nectar of orioles. Woodpeckers also frequent oriole feeders because they love insects, which is what most other bird feeders provide.
Why do Orioles stop coming to feeders?
Orioles will stop visiting bird feeders once the season changes. Their food choices will change from feeders foods to insects. The time period when they come around varies depending on where you live, but it typically starts in late April and ends in mid-October.
When should I put oranges on my Orioles?
Many people believe that the best time to put oranges on their Orioles is in spring, when the birds are hungry and just coming out of hibernation. But if you’re not an avid birder, there’s no harm in putting oranges on your Orioles year-round.
Related Post: Baltimore Oriole Bird Facts (with Photos, ID & Info)
