Last year when they disappeared, I stopped putting out grape jelly, figuring they had found greener pastures. This year, after consulting Google, I learned that they aren't seen as frequently while they are nesting and raising their families. So, just in case they were somewhere nearby, I kept putting jelly out for them.
Once in awhile, early in the morning, I'd see one of the lovely birds out there partaking of the sweetness. If rain came and washed all the jelly away, I'd replenish it; I realized there was still at least one male oriole and one female, because once or twice a day, they'd show up... first one, then the other.
Now I'm seeing more of them; I'm assuming the babies are now coming for jelly, since some of the male birds aren't quite as brightly colored as others.
So, the orioles didn't desert me at all. They were simply busy raising a family.
They do the same thing at my house. I thought they left after a few fleeting sightings in the spring. Then my aunt told me they were probably going to my small patch of woods and living. She was right. This is the 6th year I've had them nearby. They are so beautiful!
ReplyDeleteI'm glad your orioles came back. I don't have as many hummingbirds this year, as I normally have. They come everyday, but not as many. I love watching those birds. When I go outside near their feeders, they buzz around my head. It use to scare me, but I don't pay any attention to them anymore. I'm so glad you are doing so well, since your knee operation. Have a wonderful evening.
ReplyDeleteHugs,
Pat