Time To Clean Those Birdhouses

Birds build their nests from early spring through the summer in which to lay their eggs.  Many bird species live and raise their young in tree cavities while others weave nests in tree branches, in reeds and bushes.  However, if cavity-nesters are not able to find natural nesting locations, many species will willingly adopt man-made bird houses, also known as nest boxes.

 According to Milan Bull, Connecticut Audubon Society Senior Director of Science and Conservation now is the perfect time to purchase a bird house and get it up and ready for inspection.  “March is the traditional time to clean out your bird houses and replace the damaged ones.  It is a great time to relocate unproductive boxes and try new ones.” Mr Bull says.

Bird houses should face away from spring and summer prevailing winds.  House wrens refer their boxes placed near a tree or bush so that parent birds may land for a few minutes to survey the area for safety before they proceed into the house.  At times birds will sit outside the bird house watching the area for danger from which to defend the bird house.

 Bluebirds prefer their boxes on baffled poles about five or six feet off the ground in a grassy environment well away from bushes and shrubs.

 With a little luck, a pair of birds may occupy a bird house within hours of the time it was put it up.  However, it may take up to several weeks, months, or even years before a pair of birds chooses to occupy the bird house.  Bird houses can help in maintaining populations of many birds at healthy levels.  A single wooden bird house can have a long life – ten years is ordinary, and such a house may fledge 50 birds during that time.   Knowledgeable staff at the Connecticut Audubon Society is available to offer guidance on bird house selection and placement as well as bird seed choices.  For more information call 259-6305 ext. 109.