My old Oriole feeder bit the dust at the start of Oriole season this spring, which was fine, because it had also been made in China.
I found an awesome Made in USA feeder at my local Wild Birds Unlimited (see video below). Manufactured by Songbird Essentials in Mexico, Missouri, the copper is naturally rust-proof and anti-bacterial.
I was a little hesitant to use it because it’s very different from the last feeder, which featured a covered bowl for sugar water. Baltimore Orioles, and Grey Catbirds too, are sugar fiends. They love sugar water, jelly, and oranges (apples not so much). But, I did like the idea of a bowl for holding lots of jelly. With the old feeder, I’d find jelly globs on the ground because the birds would drop it.
I’ve been using the new feeder for a few weeks now and have carefully watched the bird activity. The Orioles and Catbirds took to it instantly (sometimes birds will be hesitant with a new feeder).
The bowl holds lots of Blueberry Preserves, which the Orioles and Catbirds gobble up. In the past, I’ve tested grape and apricot — blueberry wins, plus, they love picking the blueberries out of the jam. Do birds “nom”? Maybe not, but you get the idea. 😛
According to the Songbird Essentials website, over 95% of the company’s product line is domestically manufactured. You can order direct or inquire at your local bird store. Link to their online store: songbirdessentials.com
You can watch two male Orioles duke it out at the feeder. This is the first time I’ve caught action like this. (I use one of those Blink home security cameras attached to the feeder pole. I get some amazing footage!)
Full Disclosure
Link to Songbird Essentials is “free.” I’m not paid nor asked to write about US-made products. I buy products, use them, and if I like them, I tell everyone about them.
I do this because my mission is to keep manufacturing jobs stateside. This mission is my way of giving back. We like to think our “small” choices won’t make a difference. They do.
