There are eleven species of North American orioles. The most well-known oriole, the Baltimore oriole, has a large breeding range across the midwest and eastern United States. Other species, like the hooded oriole or Bullock’s oriole, are only found on the west coast. [1] X Research source There are also six species of tanagers you could attract. Like orioles, these species have a wide range and can be spotted across the United States during breeding season. On the east coast, you might be able to attract scarlet tanagers to your backyard, while on the west coast you’ll find western and hepatic tanagers. [2] X Research source
Any nectar producing flowers will be appealing for these birds, but they seem to be more attracted to brightly colored flowers. If you’re on the west coast, orioles enjoy agave and ocotillos. These birds aren’t picky about their berries either. Plants like mulberries, wild cherries, serviceberries, grapes, raspberries, and blackberries will all be greatly appreciated by orioles and tanagers.
Orioles like trees that attract insects and have branches they can use to build their nests. Trees like cottonwoods, maples, elms, sycamores, and willows are all favorites. Tanagers especially enjoy fruit trees, like plums or cherries, for the sweet fruits they bear and insects they attract. Tanagers will nest in a variety of different trees, though western tanagers tend to prefer pine trees and other evergreens.
Consider buying or making bird feeders specifically designed for holding fruit. [5] X Research source Some might have spikes to stick orange halves on or flat dishes to place cut fruits. Try to place these feeders out in the open and not obscured by any trees or buildings. If the birds can’t see any potential food sources when flying overhead, they might avoid your yard entirely.
Cut just the base of the orange off so there is a flat surface for the orange half to rest on. Make sure you cut enough so that the base is flat, but not enough to cut through the fruit itself. Be sure to change out the fruit and clean the feeders every couple of days to keep everything fresh. Birds won’t be very interested in spoiled fruit, but bugs certainly will.
Avoid using pesticides around your yard to ensure that there are plenty of insects for these birds to feast on. Insecticide can also be harmful for birds if they eat too many bugs that have been sprayed.
