Do you have an old, unused rake gathering dust in your shed? Give it a new purpose and attract stunning black and orange orioles to your backyard!
These colorful birds have a particular fondness for juicy oranges, and a simple rake can be turned into the perfect feeder to cater to their citrus cravings. The rake’s head acts as a sturdy platform to hold orange slices, while its spikes offer convenient perching spots for these birds.
Creating Your Oriole Feeder
@imthegoat_22 Oriole eating oranges off the rake. #oriole #birdfriend #sweetoranges ♬ Hard Work – U.S. Drill Sergeant Field Recordings
Orioles are known to occasionally visit feeders in many homes across America.(ref) So, turning your old rake into a delightful oriole feeder is a fun and simple DIY project that can bring these birds right to your backyard.
- Prepare the Oranges: Start by cutting your oranges into halves or quarters, depending on the size of your rake and the size of the birds you hope to attract. Once cut, simply spear the orange pieces onto the tines of your rake. It’s up to you whether you want to use every tine or leave some empty to provide perching spots for the orioles.
- Secure the Rake: There are a couple of ways you can secure your new feeder.
- Simple Option: If you’re looking for a quick and easy solution, simply insert the handle of the rake into the ground. Make sure it’s deep enough to provide stability and prevent the feeder from tipping over. A great option for placing your feeder is in a garden bed or flower pot.
- Advanced Option: If you want a more permanent or elevated feeder, you can remove the rake head from the handle and attach it directly to a fence, tree trunk, or post. Use nails, screws, or sturdy wire to secure the rake head firmly. This method allows you to position the feeder at different heights and locations, giving you more flexibility in attracting orioles to your yard.
Maintaining Your Feeder
To ensure your oriole feeder remains a healthy and attractive food source, regular maintenance is key.
- Regular Checks: Check your feeder frequently, especially during warmer months when oranges can spoil more quickly. Look for signs of mold, rot, or dehydration. Replace any fruit that appears unappetizing or has attracted unwanted guests like ants.
- Hygiene: Keep your feeder clean by removing any debris, fallen fruit, or bird droppings. Wipe down the rake head with a damp cloth if necessary. This will prevent the spread of bacteria and keep your feeder sanitary for the birds.
- Freshness: Replace the orange pieces every few days, or more often if they become overly ripe or moldy. Offering fresh fruit will ensure that your oriole visitors continue to enjoy their meals and return to your feeder.
By following these simple maintenance tips, you can keep your DIY oriole feeder in top condition, providing a safe and enjoyable dining experience for these beautiful birds.
Tips for a Successful Feeder
To ensure your DIY oriole feeder is a hit, here are a few additional tips to consider:
- Cleanliness: Before transforming your rake into a feeder, make sure to give it a thorough cleaning. Remove any dirt, rust, or debris that might deter the birds or contaminate their food.
- Attractive Colors: Orioles are naturally drawn to the color orange, so consider painting your rake head in this vibrant hue. This will make your feeder even more enticing and help the orioles locate it easily. You can also add other orange accents, such as ribbons or decorative elements, to further enhance its appeal.
When to Offer Oranges
Orioles typically seek fruit in spring, so May is a great time to start offering oranges. You can continue throughout the summer to attract more songbirds. Other birds, like woodpeckers, thrashers, mockingbirds, and tanagers, may also enjoy this citrus fruit.
So, don’t let that old rake rust away in your shed. With a little creativity and a few simple steps, you can transform it into a feeding station, and not only attract these beautiful birds but also contribute to their well-being.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.