Wood is the best material for birdhouses. The houses should have ventilation, drainage holes, and be painted earth tones. If the entrance hole is too small, birds may get stuck or not use the house. Mount the birdhouse 5 to 30 feet high on a pole away from trees and predators. Conceal with camouflage. Don’t use a perch since birds can cling to the house and perches allow predators access.
Nest Box Placement
Nest boxes should be designed for one bird species, not multiple. Place the box facing open areas with short grass and a clear flight path away from your house and feeders. Mount 5 to 10 feet high for bluebirds. Bluebirds like open spaces. The box color should blend with the area. Repaint when you repaint fences and sheds.
Set a birdbath in sunlight at ground level with branches nearby for preening.
Maintenance and Security
Birdhouses should be in the shade facing east to stay cool. Elevate and camouflage to conceal from predators.
Paint birdhouses in fall before spring nesting season so they air out.
Mount birdhouses in sunny open spaces with afternoon shade away from trees to deter predators. Secure birdhouses using hole restrictors, baffles, tube entrances and predator repellents.
Tailor birdhouse height to natural cavity heights for specific species in your area. Research cavity nesters in your area to identify proper height. Space multiple birdhouses apart for privacy.
FAQ:
Can you put a birdhouse in full sun?
Where should you not put a birdhouse?