Keeping a beautiful garden comes with a myriad of rewards, one of which is the opportunity to attract a variety of colorful and melodious bird species. There are a number of local garden birds that use birdhouses as shelter, breeding grounds, and feeding stations. This article will delve into the common types of birds that utilize birdhouses and offer some helpful tips on attracting them to your garden.
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Eastern Bluebird (Sialia sialis)
Belonging to the Thrush family, Eastern Bluebirds are small, plump birds with brilliant royal-blue backs and reddish chests. Birdhouses, specifically designed for bluebirds with an entrance hole measuring 1.5 inches, are ideal for attracting this species. Position the birdhouse about 4-6 feet above ground and preferably facing the east to protect the birds from the prevailing winds and afternoon sun.
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House Wren (Troglodytes aedon)
As their name suggests, these little birds are famous for making homes in close proximity to human dwellings. The House Wren is small and jumpy, with a warm brown body, sharp beak, and ebullient voice. Birdhouses for wrens should have a 1-inch entrance hole and should be placed in a shady spot, as these birds prefer low, thick trees and shrubs.
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Purple Martin (Progne subis)
The largest North American swallow, Purple Martins are sociable birds that live in colonies. Traditional birdhouses for these birds are multi-compartment houses or gourds that mimic their natural nesting preferences. Situate these birdhouses in open areas near water, and at a height of 12-20 feet to attract these aerial insect eaters.
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Black-capped Chickadee (Poecile atricapillus)
Chickadees are small, lively birds with gray bodies, white bellies, and characteristic black caps. They prefer solitary birdhouses with 1.125 inches entrance holes and filled with sawdust or wood shavings to allow them to ‘excavate’ their nests. Place these birdhouses in a semi-shaded area about 5-15 feet above the ground.
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Northern Flicker (Colaptes auratus)
Northern Flickers are large, brown woodpeckers with a distinctive black-scalloped plumage. Birdhouses for this species must have entrance holes approximately 2.5 inches wide and should be affixed about 6-20 feet above the ground on tree trunks or posts. It would be best if you position them on the edge of clearings or open areas.
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Great Crested Flycatcher (Myiarchus crinitus)
Equipped with a trait flamboyant crest, the Great Crested Flycatcher is a loud and vibrant bird. They have little preference for birdhouse design, as they readily nest in both natural cavities and standard birdhouses with 1.75 inches entrance holes. Birdhouses should be mounted between 8-20 feet from the ground in a well-shaded spot.
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The wood ducks (Aix sponsa)
Wood Ducks show a strong affinity for nesting in tree cavities near water. Large, tunnel-like birdhouses with 4 inches circular entrance holes are perfect for these beautifully-marked birds. Position these houses over or near water at heights of around 10-20 feet.
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Offering a warm, snug birdhouse is a splendid way to endear your garden to local birds. It not only provides them with a haven but also provides you with a unique opportunity to observe these lovely creatures up close. Remember, different bird species have different birdhouse preferences in terms of design, size, location, and height. Through careful observation and planning, you can turn your garden into a vibrant bird sanctuary.
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References:
– Cornell Lab of Ornithology, Birdhouse Dimensions: https://nestwatch.org/learn/all-about-birdhouses/features-of-a-good-birdhouse/
– The Spruce, Birds That Use Birdhouses: https://www.thespruce.com/birds-that-use-birdhouses-4121929
– Audubon, How to Choose the Right Kind of Bird Feeder: https://www.audubon.org/news/how-choose-right-kind-bird-feeder
