Bluebird Houses Details

Jump to Section

If you're like most people, you probably love spending time outdoors surrounded by beautiful wildlife. Birds are a particular favorite and can be easily attracted to your yard if you provide the right amenities. One way to do this is by installing a bluebird house in your backyard.

Bluebird houses are simple structures that mimic natural tree cavities in which bluebirds like to nest. They are easy to make or can be purchased online or at local hardware stores. It is important to follow the specific instructions for mounting and placement provided by the manufacturer, as well as observe local ordinances, to ensure the safety of these lovely birds. 

Don't forget to read about tree stump bird bath ideas, identifying baby birdon our blog.

In this article, we will discuss why bluebird houses are needed, how to make one yourself, where to place it, as well as other considerations to keep in mind. Keep reading to learn more.

Where's the Best Place to Put a Bluebird House?

Image Credit: http://blog.duncraft.com

What Is A Bluebird House And Why Do I Need One?

First of all, not to be confused with birdhouses that are made for European starlings, purple martins, or even woodpeckers, bluebird houses are very small nesting structures that are big enough to accommodate only one pair of adult bluebirds. You can buy these houses online or at local hardware stores. Bluebird houses mimic the natural tree cavities in which bluebirds like to nest.

This species prefers open areas such as grasslands and meadows so if you have the right kind of area near your property then providing habitat elements will attract more birds into your yard.

Moreover, since these birds are predators, they will help keep the population of rodents under control. If you enjoy watching bluebirds as many do, then installing a house for them is rewarding and beneficial to both you and the local ecosystem. 

If there are no suitable nesting sites available near your home then providing an artificial structure just might be enough to entice this bird into your backyard.

How To Make A Bluebird House

If you want to care for a baby bird or two, you will need to make a bluebird house. The standard dimensions for such a structure are 9 inches tall and 7 inches wide. You can find instructions online that show you how to create this birdhouse, or you can purchase one from your local hardware store.

Just like other types of houses, bluebird houses also come in different designs and shapes so choose the kind that your backyard birds prefer and mount it on an appropriate location as per the manufacturer's instructions.

Where Should You Put Your Bluebird House?

You can place these nesting boxes anywhere in your backyard as long as there are enough trees nearby so the parents can easily protect their young against potential predators such as raccoons, snakes, and cats.

As mentioned earlier, bluebirds generally inhabit open areas so you must try to mimic these conditions to attract them into your yard. You can do this by making sure that there are enough sources of food, water, and shelter available in the area surrounding your birdhouse. These natural features will be very attractive to these creatures especially when they are looking for a place to stay.

Important Considerations When Choosing Where To Place The Birdhouse

If you are not sure where to put the house, consider these important factors:

Sunlight requirements: Birds need ample sunlight to survive. The sun provides heat that they can use for warmth during the cold months of winter. Make sure that your backyard has adequate sunlight throughout the day so they will have enough light to take care of their young even if it's late in the afternoon when the sun is about to set.

Water sources: Like other species, bluebirds need access to drinking water all year round even if there are no ponds or streams nearby. Provide a source of fresh drinking water near your birdhouses so they don't have far to go just to quench their thirst.

Shelters from predators: Bluebirds are very protective of their young and will do all they can to avoid predators from harming them. Make sure that there are trees nearby so the parents can easily protect their babies against snakes, cats, and other animals that may try to harm them like raccoons or hawks.

Decorating Your Backyard With Other Elements

There are several techniques you can use to decorate your yard to attract bluebirds. You can plant native annual flowers and perennials which will also help preserve local ecosystems at the same time. These plants have very little impact on the environment so they are great choices for home landscaping.

Another idea can be the installation of a birdbath fountain. This will benefit a variety of different types of birds and will enhance your yard with a natural water source. You can find these in pet stores or online and they are very easy to make.

In addition to all this, if you want to install a bird feeder then you should remember that bluebirds only eat insects so it is best not to offer them food from your bird feeder. Just set up the birdbath and put out some insect predators instead.

With just a little effort and creativity you can attract bluebirds into your backyard by creating an environment based on their needs and preferences. All these efforts will help preserve local ecosystems and keep wildlife safe at the same time.

Bluebird Houses Details – FAQ

How do I attract bluebirds?

Bluebirds like to live in natural tree cavities where they can build their nests. If you want to attract bluebirds to your yard, provide a house that is about 10 inches tall with an opening of 4-5 inches wide and 6-7 inches deep.

Buying or Building a Blue Bird House, Information You Need

Image Credit: http://wild-bird-watching.com

What Types Of Bluebird Houses Work Best?

There are many different styles and designs of boxes available for purchase or you can make your own. The most important thing is that it has a front opening so they can enter and exit easily and a sloped roof so rain can run right through without pooling inside. Bluebirds prefer a round nesting hole but will accept an oblong opening as well.

Final Thoughts On Bluebird Houses Details

In conclusion, remember that bluebirds will not use an inferior housing structure just because it is there. You should make sure that your housing meets or exceeds the minimum specifications for dimensions and other features before putting out your house.

Also, while we stress cleanliness and hygiene in this article, please realize that research has also shown that many birds (not only bluebirds) build nests and roost in dirt and grime all the time without any problems. Finally, if you are considering moving into the hobby of raising bluebirds long-term, then building wooden houses may be more cost-effective than buying metal ones.

Mark Weber

Mark Weber

Mark started out as an electrical engineer before he became a licensed bathroom remodeling contractor. He loves writing about bathrooms and remodeling in his spare time, as it relaxes him to think of something besides work.

Related Articles
Related Articles
Get Kitchen Newsletter
Follow Us

Download Free Chart Now!

Your email will be used only to confirm your request and to provide free kitchen information. By submitting your info on this form, you are agreeing to be contacted regarding your service request by means of email. This is no obligation form and doesn’t require you to purchase any service.

norton_black
comodo_black