Frequently Asked Questions
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To attract bluebirds, you should position your bluebird house in an open, sunny area with short grass where they can find insects. It's best to place it on the edge of your property, overlooking an open area.
Placing the bluebird house at least 50 feet away from brushy or wooded areas helps prevent competition with house wrens, which can destroy bluebird nests. House wrens prefer these types of locations.
It's crucial to keep the bluebird house away from buildings like houses and barns because house sparrows, an invasive species that competes with bluebirds, tend to thrive near such structures.
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Using smooth round pipes, such as ½" or 1" electrical conduit, is ideal for mounting. To deter climbing predators, periodically polish or coat the pole, and use hardware cloth, a wobbling stovepipe, or a PVC baffle underneath the box.
Mount your bluebird house about five feet off the ground. This height discourages climbing predators like snakes, raccoons, and cats. The entrance hole should be at eye-level for easy monitoring.
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Bluebirds generally prefer nest boxes facing east, north, south, and then west in descending order of preference. This may help protect nests from overheating or wind and storms. However, adapt the direction based on your specific location.
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If you plan to put up multiple bluebird houses, follow recommended distances to prevent territorial conflicts. For Eastern Bluebirds, spacing them at least 100 yards apart is suggested.
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The Audubon Society does not recommend mounting your bluebird house to a tree due to the increased risk of predators to the baby birds. It is recommended to hang your houses on a pole with a baffle to keep squirrels and pests from disturbing the nest.
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Don't be discouraged if bluebirds don't find your nestboxes right away. It may take them a few seasons. Once established, bluebirds often return to the same area each year.
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Bluebirds usually nest in late March or early April, with two broods per season, but up to four are possible in warmer climates. Recognize bluebird nests as cup-shaped and made of woven grass or pine needles.