Attracting Wildlife FAQ:
Selecting a birdhouse involves some pre-planning based upon your expectations and setting. When selecting a birdhouse it is important to keep these factors in mind:
- The type of birds you are trying to attract.
- 85 species of North American birds are defined as cavity nesters- of these approximately 30 species of birds will use a birdhouse.
- Once you have selected the species you want to attract, learn about their specific needs.
- The desired appearance and visible setting for the birdhouse (place away from your birdfeeders).
- Place opposite wind currents, in a relatively sunny area.
- Proximity of protective landscaping to the bird house.
- Ease of cleaning and maintenance.
- Competition and threat from other animals (cats, squirrels, raccoons, hawks).
- Pay particular attention to the interior dimensions required by the species you want to attract.
- Resist the temptation to cluster numerous bird houses together, birds are very territorial.
- Clean the bird house annually using a 10% bleaching solution.
- Be patient. Even with the right mixture of habitat, positioning, selection of housing, water, and feed; it will take time before your site is adopted by a nesting pair of birds.
Looking for more specific information?
Read about common owls you might find in your neighborhood in the North American Owls Info page.
Get some interesting information about Attracting Ladybugs to your garden.
Read about how some people are encouraging butterflies to frequent their garden paradise!
Find out why you should consider allowing bats to live in your yard.
Insects are bad, right? Find out what insects you should be encouraging to live in your garden!
Also, be sure to see our Bird Nesting Chart, which describes the birds that may be living in your backyard.
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