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Wild Bird Houses

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Wild Bird Houses

Putting up wild bird houses is a great way to help birds find a secure and well-monitored nest during breeding season. Observing the birds during this period is a fulfilling experience for both young and old.

Each species of bird will have a different nesting habitat and the surrounding area to your wild bird houses will determine what species will take up residence. For example, the purple martin will be attracted to wild bird houses that are placed in the middle of open spaces, 30-120 feet from a property and have no trees taller than the bird house within 40-60 feet.

But each species is different. Research your species and find out their spatial requirements as well as the type of habitat they are naturally attracted to. Not only will the positioning of the bird house change depending on the species, the height and size of the entrance hole will change too. But look for these basic construction elements to get the best possible wild bird houses available.

Look for solid construction and wood that is at least ¾ of an inch thick. This will help protect the bird house against the elements and also from predators. Make sure the lumber of the wild bird houses is untreated wood. Cedar and pine are two types of wood that weather well.

Drainage holes and a recessed floor will prevent the nest from getting wet and rough interior walls feel more natural for a bird and are easier to construct a nest against. An extended and sloped roof will also help keep the interior of wild bird houses protected from the elements and double up as protection from predators.

Predators are cunning and inventive and are a constant threat to nesting birds. An extended and sloped roof of at least five inches will make it harder for raccoons and domestic cats to be able to reach into the wild bird houses. To deter an attack from below, fix a predator guard to the tip of the pole. This will stop animals that try to climb the pole reaching the bird house.

Make sure that you know the size of the entrance hole for the species you are expecting. This is important information. A rough guess and you could be laying down a welcome mat for intruders. Do your research and buy the correct size.

Be sure that your wild bird houses are up and in position before the start of breeding season. In the south, bird houses should be in place by February and in the north, no later than March. Having the wild bird houses ready before the season begins will increase the chances of birds finding and using them.

Avoid installing wild bird houses in areas that use herbicides and pesticides. These chemicals dramatically reduce the insect population that is the main source of food for cavity nesting birds. Also, check the direction your wild bird houses are facing. Many species will not take up residence in a west facing bird house because it may be too hot. Research is the key. Find out the nest height, entrance hole size and spatial preferences of your expected guests. With the proper research and the correct bird house you can enjoy seeing the birds for years to come.