Although it’s plastic I was shocked at how sturdy it really is. It does have a metal pole.  I love that there two different ways to feed the birds especially for the hummingbirds with the little plastic tips you put underneath the holes. Keeps other birds out of their food. I put it out a week ago and two days later I saw a  hummingbird.  I was so enthralled with seeing it, I didn’t get a photo.  I still work and my husband said he’s seen several hummingbirds in the last week. Sadly, we haven’t seen any orioles yet but I know they’ll be here soon. You will be thrilled with this feeder!  I highly recommend it.