Bluebird sightings are a rare occurrence these days. A cavity nester, the bluebird's search for a protected, closed-in space has become harder to find due to the use of metal fence posts rather than wood ones, and the aggressive competition by English sparrows and starlings for available hollows. The use of pesticides has also scaled back the bluebird population. You can help sustain the bluebirds by providing a safe habitat with food and shelter they prefer.
1. What should I plant to attract Bluebirds to my yard?
- Serviceberries
- Dogwoods
- Hollies
- Virginia Creeper
- Sumacs
- Elderberries
- Fox grapes
2. How do I prepare a Bluebird Box?
Bluebirds usually build their nests in the spring and lay eggs between March and July. The eggs take 13-16 days to hatch, and the young birds stay in the nest for approximately 20 days. Both the male and female bluebird parents participate in feeding and caring for their young.
- Use 3/4" lumber
- Cut an entry hole into the top 1/3 of the box measuring exactly 1 1/2" to prevent larger birds from entering.
- Do not place a perch on the box because this encourages house wrens and sparrows to attempt entry. If another bird does get in, remove its nest. You may have to do this several times, but eventually the bird will abandon the box, leaving it for its intended bluebird.
- Paint the box a light color to keep the interior cool.
- Mount it 5-6 ft. above ground in an open area within 100 ft. of trees or shrubs.
- Keep boxes up year round. Many bluebirds remain in one location all year.