Birds are drawn to sweet foods, and grape jelly is a popular offering for backyard bird enthusiasts. This sweet treat provides a quick energy boost, especially during migration. Understanding which birds enjoy it, how to offer it safely, and its implications for bird health is important.
Birds That Enjoy Grape Jelly
Many bird species, particularly fruit and insect eaters, are attracted to grape jelly. Orioles, like the Baltimore and Bullock’s, are well-known for their fondness, especially in early spring when natural sweets are scarce.
Other fruit-eating birds also frequent jelly feeders. Gray catbirds, known for their preference for berries, consume grape jelly. Tanagers (Scarlet and Western), Northern mockingbirds, rose-breasted grosbeaks, house finches, and woodpeckers (red-bellied, hairy, downy) have also been observed enjoying it.
Properly Offering Grape Jelly to Birds
When offering grape jelly, selecting the right feeder and maintaining hygiene are key. Shallow dishes, specialized jelly feeders, or orange halves work as containers. Oriole feeders often feature small dishes or pegs for orange halves, sometimes in bright orange colors to attract birds. Place feeders in visible locations, away from predators, for bird security.
Feeders should be cleaned daily to prevent mold and bacterial growth. Offer only small quantities that can be consumed quickly to prevent spoilage, especially in warmer weather when fermentation can occur. Some birders use small spoonfuls in tiny containers or empty orange peels to avoid stickiness or unwanted insects.
Considering Bird Health and Other Food Options
Grape jelly is primarily a sugary treat, lacking comprehensive nutrients found in a natural diet. It provides energy but minimal protein, vitamins, or minerals essential for a balanced diet. View jelly as a snack, not a main food source, offering limited amounts, perhaps a quarter of a cup daily during peak migration.
Downsides include birds getting sticky feathers, which can impair flight. High sugar content also attracts pests like bees and wasps. Healthier alternatives providing balanced nutrition include fresh fruits like orange halves, apple slices (seeds removed), bananas, berries, and grapes. Suet, a high-fat food, is an excellent option, particularly in colder months, providing crucial energy. Nectar can also be offered in appropriate feeders, especially for species like orioles that consume natural nectars.