How High Should Bluebird Houses Be Above the Ground?

Bluebirds must increasingly rely on manmade bird houses.

Five Feet or Less

Bluebirds will nest in boxes mounted as low as 3 to 5 feet above the ground. For cleaning and monitoring purposes, it is helpful to have the house mounted at about eye level so the lid can be opened and the house cleaned.

Above Five Feet is Safer

According to the North American Bluebird Society, it is more difficult for jumping or climbing predators to raid the nest when the birdhouse is mounted over 5 feet above the ground. A bluebird house can be as high as 15 feet to avoid animals; however, birdhouses mounted higher than 5 or 6 feet are more attractive to sparrows.

Bottom Line

According to the North Carolina Bluebird Society, the ideal height for a bluebird house (with predator guards) is 5 feet above the ground.

References

• North American Bluebird Society: Sparrow Control
• North Carolina Bluebird Society: Nestboxes for Bluebirds
• North American Bluebird Society: FAQ

Resources

• Bluebirds Forever: Correct Dimensions, Placement and Maintenance of Bluebird Houses