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Birdhouses

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Birdhouses

On any given spring and summer day in America birds abound from tree to tree looking for food and a place to nest. Providing that nest in the form of birdhouses not only increases the amount of birds in the area, but those birds can also improve the environment by singing every morning and eating pesky bugs. However, just building or purchasing one of these houses and hanging it in a backyard doesn't always attract the desired results. The bird house has to be installed in a desirable location for the desired bird, and the house should be suitable for the desired bird.

If you are trying to attract robins, don't build or buy a bird house with an enclosed interior. Robins prefer an open covered ledge with plenty of visibility and a good roof. There should be trees nearby for them to fly to directly, but if the trees are too dense they will choose another place to build their nest.

Birdhouses placed in thicker patches of trees and forests are likely to attract woodpeckers and nuthatches. Try to mimic the natural habitat of the bird for the best results. Often a little research is necessary, either online, with a bird specialist, or through consistent observation. Some species only nest at a certain height from the ground. Years of evolution have shown the bird that nesting any lower, or higher than that specific height is dangerous for their eggs and their own safety.

Attracting bluebirds and wrens is completely different from attracting a wood pecker. These species prefer a house easily accessed in an open field or spacious backyard. Bluebirds like having a good view of the surrounding area, but there should also be trees or vegetation nearby for  them to fly to for protection or shelter.

The size of the bird house is also of utmost importance when trying to attract certain birds. Martins prefer more room then many birds with at least 6 inches square of interior space and a nearly 3 inch entrance. A whitewashed exterior is known to attract them as well, but a properly sized decorated and colorful house may still be attractive to them. Martins eat lots of flying insects making them a desirable bird to have around, and they will nest in groups if the house is large enough.

Nuthatches and other small birds prefer a more natural environment for nesting. Birdhouses made from unfinished, natural materials with small openings and cozy interiors will often attract these birds. They like their entrances on the top so they can nest in the bottom where it is safer and warmer. The material is also important, a metal bird house will get too hot when struck by sunlight. Wood is the most preferred material to birds for obvious reasons, it mimics their natural habitat. Avoid houses with perches, they often allow predators to get a good hold of the opening and make sure there are drainage holes inside to prevent water from pooling.

With a little preparation anyone can find a suitable bird house and install it in a desirable location. Knowing the lifestyle and habits of the birds you would like to attract greatly helps.