Can Orioles Drink From Hummingbird Feeders?

Number

• If feeding both hummingbirds and orioles with hummingbird feeders, put up more than one feeder. Baltimore orioles will protect a feeder and kill hummingbirds that get near. Male hummingbirds are very aggressive and will try to attack other birds, especially other male hummingbirds.

Warning

• Change any nectar and clean the feeder every two or three days because of the danger of fermented nectar. This can cause a hummingbird or oriole's liver to suddenly expand and kill the bird.

Expert Advice

• Place hummingbird nectar feeders in shaded areas so that direct sunlight does not fall onto the feeder and cause the nectar to ferment. Also, do not use powdered sugar to make nectar because it contains corn starch and makes the nectar ferment rapidly.