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Birdhouses and birdfeeders are an easy way to have more birds around
your home or in your woodlot. On this page are our reader's tips on
how to build
houses for different kinds of birds and tips for setting them up.
Leave
some drain holes or space in the bottom of every house, and
some ventilation holes or space near the top of each side of
the house. Keep the air moving in the house to keep it dry and
cool.
Provide a roof with at least a two-inch overhang on the front
to protect the entrance hole from wind driven rain, and to prevent
cats and other critters from reaching in from above.
Space next boxes at least 25 feet apart ( 300 feet for bluebird
houses ) to reduce conflicts.
Most birds are territorial and protect the area around their
nest. Purple martins live in colonies and prefer "apartment
houses" to single family houses.
Most houses should be attached to a post, building or tree.
Bluebird boxes should not be placed on trees because of cats
and raccoons
Wood
is the best material to use. Preservatives, such as paint or
stain (Waterproof is good ), can be used on the outside of the
box, especially the back, but not on the inside. Avoid using
creosote as a preservative.
Do not use tin cans, milk cartons or metal for nest boxes. They
can overheat and kill the eggs and young birds. The only exceptions
are commercial aluminum martin houses.
Other animals may take up residence in your boxes, including
mice, squirrels, bees and wasps. If unwanted, remove them (be
very careful not to get stung!), otherwise put up a few extra
boxes to make room for both the expected and unexpected tenants.
To send in a tip e-mail us!
feedback@birdhousekits.com
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Cathedral House
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Suburban House
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Treehouse
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Bird Feeder
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$15.95
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$13.95
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$12.95
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$12.95
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