were should I hang bird houses at my house?
April 28, 2010 by
Filed under Bird Baths
I have a few bird houses to hang in my yard. My questions are: How far from bird feeders and bird baths should I hang the houses? Should I put any kind of bedding as a starter in the houses? I live in Michigan, so most of the birds that would nest in these houses are common finches and maybe other small birds. Thanks. Add any usefull tips if you can think of anything else.
Put the houses as far away from the feeders as you can. Too close and the other birds could hassle the young in their nests. As far as bedding goes, the birds will do that themselves. It’s all part of the process.
you can hang them from roof overhangs,tree branches, or even fence posts, you just want to try and place them where predators can’t gain easy access. as far as nesting materials, don’t put them inside,as the birds may think it’s already occupied. but you can leave some nesting materials nearby, like pieces of ribbon or string, cotton balls, twigs, or fabric scraps. after the birds have left for the winter, then clean out the nest box, for the new future residents.
Are these commercial made birdhouses, or handcrafted by someone who knows birds? The openings have to be the right size for birds to actually use them. Also, hang in places away from feeders and think about the kind of predators the little guys face, not only other birds but snakes, weasels, possums, cats etc. and hang accordingly in hidden spaces. DO NOT hang them on your own house as this will cause some messy problems and attract bugs to your home.
There are a few things to consider before you hang a bird house in your yard.
What type of bird you want to provide housing for and therefore the style of house that is suitable will dictate the location. I have written several pages on my web site which could help you with this decision. Please drop by and let me know on the contact form if the information was helpful.
Judy http://www.the-scoop-on-wild-birds-and-feeders.com/birdwatching.html