Bluebirds are more selective than other species when it comes to the location where they build their nest. Bluebirds usually use trees with holes in them created by as a woodpecker, or trees that are rotted with holes as a place to live. However, due to the housing developments in suburban communities, many of these natural homes are being eliminated. The bluebird population has declined because of this. The building of bluebird houses is being promoted by bird lovers, and they also have educated people on placement so this wonderful species will be attracted to nest in yards and gardens. Bluebirds require specific features in order to live and nest in an area, so bluebird house placement is critical.

Features

When searching for a location for a bluebird house, you will want to keep a few thoughts in mind. First, bluebirds generally will avoid nesting in urban areas. Also, the grass in the area should be cut low so the bluebirds can perch on top of a bush or tree and scour the lawn for insects.

Even though they need trees, bushes, and cleared areas, the placement of the bird house should about at a minimum 100 feet from the wooded area. Wren reside in these areas and will take over bluebird nests, so it is wise to keep any bird houses away from them. Sparrow nest in farmyards and barns, and like Wren will take over bluebird houses so keep this in mind as well. The bluebird house placement is a critical part of the process.

Open areas such as orchards, cemeteries, fields, fence row, among others are excellent locations for bluebird house placement. Highways and pasture land have open areas near them as well. Bluebirds don’t like residing with other bluebirds as they are territorial, so you will need to place the house at least 100 yards from any other house.

An idea worth considering is building two houses near one another approximately 5-15 feet apart, one for bluebirds and another for sparrows or other species. This way they won’t disturb the bluebirds since they will have their own house. Other creatures, like squirrels for example, will always attempt to use bird houses as their habitat. You will need to have a plan for when this happens by having multiple bird houses available for them to use.