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Where should I put that birdhouse |
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Where should I put that birdhouse?
I know most of us are still dealing with the snow, but spring is on its way. This is the time of year I like to plan for spring arrivals. I’m speaking about the feathered friends that will soon return. I like to add a few new feeders and birdhouses each year. I want to make my yard a welcome and safe place for the new baby’s as well as mom and dad bird.
Providing protection and comfort for birds year round will only enhance or bird watching experience. Choosing the proper location to place birdhouse is very important. Birds need to feel safe and comfortable with their surroundings. By doing this you will promote nesting in your yard. We have the opportunity to help them along simply by placement of housing & food.
Depending on what type of birds you want to attract for nesting will determine the type of house & location. If you already have “frequent visitors” at your feeders maybe this is a good starting point to provide shelter as well. If you would like to extend a welcome to other species, this is also a good way to bring more birds in.
Make sure you position your birdhouse so it is relatively safe from predators, big & small. You want to allow for them to be able to perch but not get chomped by the neighbor’s kitty cat or other critter. A small shrub or near by branch can accomplish this. Be sure that food and water are near by and also safe for the reaching.
A birdhouse should also be place to avoid predominant wind in your yard. This helps to keep them & their home dry during rain.
If you purchase a manufactured a birdhouse many come with placement guidelines. Follow them and you should get the results your looking for. If buy one from a craft show, ask the crafter where to place it. Fact is they should have done the research on the specific species that the house was built for. On the other hand if you choose to build your own, you need to do the research for proper size, opening and placement.
Placing a large selection of birdhouse will give your guest a choice that fits their style and needs. Be sure no to over crowd or clutter your yard with birdhouses. About 4 small ones or one large one per acre is a good guide. Don’t place houses right next to each other, even birds like privacy.
Here is a short sample of what some birds like for there living quarters:
• Nesting boxes need to be hung several feet off the ground. The exact distance will depend on the type of bird and at what height they feel safe.
• Martins prefer to be near houses to breed. They still like their privacy though. About 20’ from surrounding trees and buildings should work well.
• Robins like trees with sturdy branches. Although I have seen some pretty flimsy location picked out by these guys.
• Swallows don’t enter woods so a house in an open space would catch their eye.
• Nuthatches and woodpeckers like the woods. A birdhouse on a fence post could work for this.
Not every birdhouse will attract a guest or new family. Don’t give up! Keep trying to bring them into your yard. Give the new birdhouse at least a year and then if need be… try a new location. Spring is generally the best time to place new birdhouses in your yard, but any time is fine. Remember to clean out the houses after the nesting time has passed.
Chimes and Birds would like you to welcome & enjoy these new yard guests. Please visit our online store www.ChimesAndBirds.net for more tips and yard & garden accessories.
Enjoy them BIRDS!
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