How to Attract Orioles: Oranges, Jelly and Timing
Baltimore orioles in the east and Bullock's orioles in the west are brilliant orange songbirds that arrive in spring. Getting food out at the right time is the key to attracting them.
Timing matters most
Orioles arrive from late April to early May in most of the US. Put food out by mid-April so it's ready when the first birds pass through.
Many orioles visit feeders most in spring, then switch to insects while raising chicks. Keep a little food out through summer, because they often return with their young.
What orioles eat
Orange halves and grape jelly are classic oriole foods. They also drink nectar. Offer jelly in small amounts in a shallow dish, and replace it often so it stays fresh.
Orioles also eat mealworms, especially when feeding chicks.
The way to a bluebird's heart. Dried mealworms also bring in wrens, robins and chickadees, especially in spring when they're feeding young.
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A platform feeder works well for orange halves and a dish of jelly. Many oriole feeders are bright orange, which helps the birds spot them.
An open tray feeder that welcomes the widest range of birds, including cardinals, doves, jays and juncos that prefer to feed in the open.
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Orioles nest high in tall trees such as maples, oaks and cottonwoods, where they weave hanging pouch nests. A bird bath, especially one with moving water, attracts them too.
Birds notice moving water from far away. This floating solar pump turns any bird bath into a small fountain in spring and summer, with no wiring.
Check price on Amazon for AISITIN Solar Fountain Pump (opens Amazon)Frequently asked questions
Is grape jelly bad for orioles?
Small amounts are fine. Offer a little at a time in a dish rather than large amounts, and keep it fresh.
When do orioles leave?
Most head south in late summer, from August into early September.
Why aren't orioles coming to my feeder?
Food may have gone out too late, or there may be no tall trees nearby. Try again next spring, a bit earlier.
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