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Blue Bird Houses with Vacancies
As the days become longer, a birds’ instinct to nest becomes stronger. Regardless of temperature you know it’s a sure sign of spring when birds are scurrying and flitting about with twigs, straw or grasses in their beaks.Today I was thrilled to witness such behavior by a male bluebird. I had cleaned out the old nests a few weeks ago and was afraid I’d chased away my little blue friends. Nope…they’re here, happy and getting ready for babies! This little guy was working hard, carrying piece after piece of pine straw into the house. Guess he has a pretty woman to impress!
The two blue bird houses in my yard are in close proximity. Although bluebirds are very territorial – which is why they say houses should be placed 100 feet apart, this close placement (10-15 feet) helps to alleviate competition from other birds for the coveted nest box.
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Bluebird House Wars
So You’d Like to Attract Bluebirds?One of the favorite of all songbirds is the bluebird. Their gentle disposition, and sense of family are amazing, not to mention their color and song. Placing a bluebird house in your yard is a great way to start, but may not do the trick in and of itself.
Fierce competition for nest boxes exists between house sparrows (a non-native species) and our beloved bluebirds. House sparrows are known to kill babies and adult bluebirds alike. One way to help alleviate the fighting, is to place an additional bluebird house about 10-15 feet away from the first one.
Adding a bird bath will not only help attract bluebirds, but other wonderful songbirds as well. The all-time favorite treat for bluebirds has got to be live mealworms! They are coveted for the high protein content, and most birds will gorge on them…literally eating you out of house and home! The way to exclude these little piggies is to feed meal worms in a bluebird feeder. There are very few birds, besides the bluebird, who will use this type of feeder – having to fly through a hole to reach the prize inside.
Bluebird babies are absolutely irresistible, and if you’re lucky enough to witness two broods in the same season, you’ll see the young from the first brood help mom and dad feed the new babies. Whether you choose a wooden bluebird house, or a recycled plastic one, pay close attention to placement – approximately 5-6 feet high, and in an open area. If you pole-mount the house, it’s best to use a baffle below it to thwart predators. A portal protector over the entrance will also help to ensure a successful brood.
Happy Birding!
- Bird Accessories, Bird Feeders, Hummingbird Feeders, Nesting Material, Uncategorized, Window Hummingbird Feeder
Window Hummingbird Feeder for the Porch Rail
The advantage to any window bird feeder is the close up view. Right from the comfort of sitting at your breakfast room table, sipping morning coffee (or guzzling in a frantic rush like most) wonderful bird behaviors are seamlessly incorporated into your day. Window feeders come in just about every kind and style, from platforms, and suet feeders, to tube style and hummingbird feeders.What if you just wanted that feeder a few feet further, or didn’t really prefer it slap right on the window? This stylish window hummingbird feeder actually can be attached to a deck rail as well. It’s the perfect window hummingbird feeder…not on the window itself!
Other excellent hummingbird attractors include moving water and nesting material. Hummer Helper Nest Material has actually been endorsed by The Hummingbird Society as helpful for hummingbirds nesting process. Nectar producing flowers are always a sure bet, and brighten up any landscape. Window hummingbird feeders make great and long lasting gifts, that will be used again and again, to provide nourishment for hummers and entertainment for hosts.
Birding Tips, Information & News
