Attracting orioles to your garden with a delicious jelly feeder is a delightful experience. However, unwelcome guests like bees often crash the party. This can be frustrating for both you and the orioles, who might be intimidated or outcompeted for their sweet treat. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies to keep bees away from your oriole feeders while still providing a feast for your feathered friends.
Understanding the Attraction
Before diving into solutions, it's helpful to understand why bees are drawn to oriole feeders in the first place. Oriole feeders typically contain a sugary nectar, a highly attractive food source for bees. The bright colors and the sweet aroma also play a significant role in attracting them.
Effective Strategies to Deter Bees
Here are several proven methods to keep those buzzing bees away from your oriole feeder:
1. Choose the Right Feeder Design:
- Smaller Perches: Bees struggle with smaller perches designed for orioles. Look for feeders with small, narrow openings or perches that are too small for bees to comfortably land on.
- Inverted Feeders: These feeders allow orioles to feed upside down, making it difficult for bees to access the nectar.
- Specialized Oriole Feeders: Several feeders are specifically designed with bee guards or features that make it harder for bees to access the food.
2. Strategic Placement:
- Height is Key: Position your feeder higher up, away from ground level where bees tend to forage.
- Away from Flowers: Avoid placing the feeder near flowering plants that attract bees.
- Shade: Bees prefer sunny spots. Placing your feeder in a shadier area might deter some bees.
3. Modify the Jelly:
- Less Sugar: Diluting the jelly with a bit of water can reduce its attractiveness to bees. This is less appealing to the bees while still offering enough sweetness for orioles.
- Add Vinegar: A small amount of white vinegar added to the jelly can repel bees without harming orioles. (Always test a small amount first to ensure the orioles still consume the solution)
- Citrus: Bees dislike citrus, so adding a few drops of citrus extract (like lemon or orange) might also help. Again, test this carefully, as orioles have varying preferences.
4. Homemade Bee Guards:
You can create your own bee guards using simple materials like:
- Mesh netting: Wrap mesh netting around the feeder's openings, allowing orioles access but preventing bees from reaching the jelly.
- Plastic wrap with small holes: This is a temporary solution, but it can help keep bees away. You will need to replace it regularly.
5. Regular Cleaning:
Keep your feeder clean to minimize the risk of attracting unwanted pests and insects. Clean it thoroughly, especially after a long period of use. A clean feeder is less likely to attract bees. Moldy or fermented jelly is particularly attractive to bees.
What NOT To Do
Avoid using harmful pesticides or insecticides near your feeder. These can be dangerous to birds and other wildlife.
Conclusion
By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the number of bees visiting your oriole feeder, allowing your beautiful orioles to enjoy their treat without unwanted competition. Remember, patience and experimentation are key to finding the best solution for your specific situation and location. Observe your feeder and adjust your approach accordingly. With a little effort, you can enjoy watching these vibrant birds thrive in your garden!
