Enrich your life and help save a species by erecting bluebird houses in your yard

Bluebirds are cavity nesters.  At one time they were plentiful, as they nested naturally in holes in old trees and fence posts.  With the rise of suburbia, these potential sources of lodging have been drastically reduced.  Bluebirds are competing with the much more aggressive sparrows and starlings for lodging, and it’s easy to see why the bluebird population has been vastly reduced over the years.  You can help increase the population, by erecting bluebird houses designed specifically for bluebirds.

Bluebirds readily accept bird houses as nest sites, so install a couple of bluebird houses, and allow yourself the pleasure of watching the birds in action.  As they  mainly eat insects during the spring and summer, you will get the benefit of a free bug zapper!

Of all the cavity nesters that can be attracted to bird houses, bluebirds have the most specific requirements for a bluebird houses.

• The entrance hole should be 1 ½ inch round holes for the Eastern bluebird; 1 9/16 round holes for the Western and Mountain bluebirds
• The birdhouse should be made of natural wood, but can be painted a light color on the outside only
• It should open easily for cleaning
• Perches are not required.  If the house comes with perches, remove them.

Once you have acquired the birdhouse of your choice, consider the following installation guidelines:

• Install the bluebird house on a metal pole or fencepost, 5 to 10 feet high, to keep out predators.
• The house should face north to northeast, to keep out the rain and sun.
• Place the birdhouse in the open, with trees nearby. The best location is beside a field or golf course.

Bluebirds choose their nesting sites early in the spring, and nest building is under way by March/April.  If your bluebird houses are not inhabited by bluebirds the first year, don’t be discouraged.  Keep removing the sparrow’s nests, and within a few seasons you may be pleasantly surprised.  Once a bluebird house is established, the birds will return and you will be able to enjoy their presence year after year.

To find bird houses specifically for bluebirds, choose from the vendor links below:

Yardiac.com

The Bird Shed
Buy in bulk and create a bluebird trail.

Specifications for bluebird houses