Birds and Squirrels

Quickly becoming one of America’s favorite birds is the Oriole. With their striking black and orange or yellow feathers and their unique whistles and song it’s easy to understand why. So why not bring some more color into your yard with these beautiful birds! Orioles do most of their migrating at night so by the time they get to you they’re ready to eat. 

Now how to feed them? Nectar feeders with Oriole nectar are always a good idea. But nectar isn’t the only food on the menu. Try getting a fruit and jelly feeder. Cut oranges in half and attach them to the feeder with the juicy side out. The other favorite is grape jelly, I’ve heard many people say that not only do they keep their orioles around longer (some say all winter) but the sugar content makes for a high-energy food. And if you also love Woodpeckers, Robins, Warblers and Tanagers you’ll have your yard filled with favorites. Once you get them you can try some other foods. I had one person say her Orioles and Blue jays loved popcorn! No salt please. So feed and enjoy!

With their bright orange, yellow and black plumage, orioles can’t help but make a grand entrance when they appear in your backyard. Many homeowners are so taken by the sight of these beautiful creatures that they try to attract them through specialized means. In order to lure an oriole closer to your home, you’ll need to come bearing fruit. Start by cutting an orange in half and laying it face-up on a railing.

Once you’ve confirmed the bird’s interest in eating in your neck of the woods, start looking around for oriole feeders. These receptacles are similar to hummingbird feeders in that they are meant to be filled with nectar. Fill the feeder with four parts water for every one part sugar, and then hang it from the exterior of the house or a nearby tree branch.