Why Birdhouses are Important
- Habitat Support: Cavity-nesting birds rely on birdhouses as natural tree cavities decline due to urban development.
- Pest Control: Birds like bluebirds and swallows feed on insects, reducing garden pests naturally.
- Enjoyment: Observing and listening to songbirds adds beauty and serenity to any garden.
Choosing the Right Birdhouse
- Use untreated wood for breathability and avoid pressure-treated materials.
- Ensure the birdhouse has vent holes near the top and drain holes at the bottom.
- Include a hinged side or top for easy cleaning and monitoring.
- Avoid perches, as they attract predators like starlings and house sparrows.
Placing Your Birdhouse
- Mount birdhouses on poles rather than trees to reduce predator access.
- Place houses 4 to 10 feet off the ground for most songbirds; higher for species like purple martins.
- Position the entrance facing north or east to avoid overheating.
- Maintain adequate spacing between houses: 30 feet for most birds and 300 feet for bluebirds.
Maintaining Your Birdhouses
- Commit to regular cleaning and monitoring to prevent disease and predation.
- Clean out old nests after fledglings leave and disinfect the interior with diluted white vinegar.
- Use anti-predator devices like cone guards or baffles to protect nests.
Enhance your garden’s ecosystem by providing a safe, welcoming habitat for songbirds.
