Oriole Feeders
Oriole feeders provide nourishment for orioles during their breeding season in the United States. Oriole bird feeders differ from other feeders because they provide nectar, jelly and/or fruit. Most feature a large vessel of some sort for filling with nectar. Oriole nectar is a sugar water concoction that substitutes for flower nectar. It is often orange-colored. Baltimore oriole feeders, which will also feed the somewhat lesser-known species of orioles, often have places to spear fruit, mostly halves of oranges. Many backyard birders have also great luck offering grape jelly to orioles.
Recent observations suggest that upon returning to the US for breeding, some orioles are attracted mostly to the fruit and oriole nectar. As the season goes on, the birds will switch to an insect-based diet. Several of our Baltimore oriole bird feeders have jelly cups that can be used to offer mealworms later in the season.
To be successful in attracting Orioles you must be diligent about getting feeders up early before they arrive. May 1st is the earliest time and is a great time to start. Orioles migrate at night and are tired and hungry when they arrive. Offering jelly will keep the Orioles around longer so selecting a feeder that offers jelly is a great choice. Also add a water source.(bird bath, fountain, pond, etc.)
