Quick Answer
Yes, hummingbird feeders and oriole feeders can be placed close together. However, it’s ideal to position them at least 10-15 feet apart to reduce competition between the birds. Orioles are larger and more territorial, so giving them some space prevents them from dominating the hummingbird feeders.
Do Hummingbirds and Orioles Get Along?
Hummingbirds and orioles generally co-exist well together. Both species are highly attracted to nectar, so having feeders nearby provides an excellent food source. Here are some things to know about their relationship:
- Orioles and hummingbirds don’t directly compete for food. Orioles prefer fruit and insects, while hummingbirds live almost entirely off nectar.
- Orioles may occasionally chase hummingbirds away from feeders they’ve claimed as their own territory. But overall aggression is minimal.
- Having both types of feeders available gives the birds options. Orioles that prefer fruit won’t disrupt the hummingbirds at nectar feeders as often.
- Orioles and hummingbirds may even benefit from being near each other. Orioles give alarm calls when predators are nearby, alerting hummingbirds to danger.
So having both oriole and hummingbird feeders in the same general area of your yard is perfectly fine. Just be sure to space them appropriately to reduce squabbling.
Ideal Distance Between Hummingbird & Oriole Feeders
Most experts recommend positioning hummingbird and oriole feeders 10 to 15 feet away from each other, minimum. This gives the birds plenty of personal space and reduces direct competition.
Here are some tips for optimal feeder placement:
- Put hummingbird feeders closer to trees, shrubs, and flowering plants that hummingbirds like to perch in.
- Position oriole feeders a bit farther away in open areas that allow clear sight lines for theselarger birds.
- Don’t place feeders directly next to each other on the same pole or hook. The birds will fight over the prime spot.
- If you notice aggressive birds not allowing others to access a feeder, move the feeders farther apart.
You can still have multiple feeders of each type in the same general vicinity. Just be sure there’s adequate spacing between the hummingbird and oriole feeder clusters. 10 to 15 feet is ideal, but you may need to adjust based on the behaviors of the birds visiting your yard.
Tips for Preventing Aggression at Feeders
To minimize bullying and make sure all birds get a chance to feed, follow these tips:
- Provide several feeders of each type spread out over a large area.
- Use feeders with multiple ports so more birds can feed at once.
- Select feeder styles where aggressive birds can’t easily guard the entire feeder.
- Offer a water source like a mister, fountain, or bird bath to reduce competition at feeders.
- Place feeders near trees or shrubs so less dominant birds have places to retreat.
- Be consistent about cleaning and refilling feeders to ensure there’s enough food for all birds.
With multiple feeder options available, both species should feel comfortable and be able to meet their dietary needs. Monitoring the birds and making adjustments as needed can help maintain peaceful interactions.
Can Hummingbirds and Orioles Use the Same Feeder?
It’s best not to use the same exact feeder for both hummingbirds and orioles. For a few reasons:
- Orioles prefer larger perch-style feeders, while hummingbirds like smaller tube/dish feeders.
- They eat different food formulas. Hummingbirds eat straight nectar, while orioles prefer nectar with fruit.
- Shared use often leads to aggression as one species tries to dominate the feeder.
However, you can compromise by using:
- Oriole feeders with small perches that hummingbirds can also use.
- Dish or cup style feeders accessible to both species.
- Clear bottle-type feeders with perches oriented for orioles and small feeding ports for hummingbirds.
The key is that the feeder allows comfortable access for both types of birds. Having separate hummingbird and oriole feeders remains the best approach to reduce conflict. But shared feeders can work with the right design.
Sample Feeder Set-Up for Hummingbirds and Orioles
Here is an example setup that caters to both hummingbirds and orioles in the same yard:
- 2 oriole feeders – Positioned 15+ feet apart in open areas of the yard on poles/hooks near the edges of trees.
- 3 hummingbird feeders – Placed 10+ feet apart along the edges of tree lines, bushes, and flower gardens.
- 1 small mixed use feeder – Located centrally between the oriole and hummingbird feeder clusters.
- 1 bird bath/mister – Situated equidistant from all feeders to provide a water source.
This type of arrangement provides plenty of feeding spaces for both species while keeping aggressive birds from dominating all the feeders. The key is avoiding direct competition by thoughtful placement that caters to the preferences of hummingbirds and orioles.
Tips for Attracting Both Species to Your Yard
Here are some other tips to bring in more hummingbirds and orioles by meeting their needs:
- Provide a variety of nectar and fruit feeders at different heights.
- Include bright red elements on feeders and yards to attract both birds.
- Plant colorful, tubular flowers like honeysuckle, trumpet vine, and native columbines.
- Add trees and bushes like maples, oaks, cherries, and mulberries that orioles nest and feed in.
- Provide fresh cool water in a bird bath, fountain, or mister system.
- Situate feeders in areas with some shade and protection from wind.
- Keep feeders clean and nectar fresh to appeal to birds.
With a bird-friendly habitat that caters to their preferences, you’re likely to have great success attracting both hummingbirds and orioles throughout the seasons. Pay attention to any signs of aggression, make adjustments as needed, and both species should thrive together.
Conclusion
Hummingbird feeders and oriole feeders can be positioned close together, as these birds generally coexist well. However, it’s ideal to place the feeders at least 10-15 feet apart to reduce competition. Providing multiple feeder options at different locations, using styles that allow shared use, and planting an abundance of flowers and trees helps accommodate both species. With a setup that meets their individual needs, hummingbirds and orioles will enjoy feeding in the same yard and may even benefit from being near each other. Careful feeder placement and monitoring of bird behaviors allows you to adjust as required and create a peaceful environment for these amazing birds.
