Information About Bird Boxes

A bird box is a man-made box that wild birds live inside of. They are also known as birdhouses or nesting boxes. A bird box can be attached to trees, buildings or fences or erected independently on posts. Unlike bird feeders, bird boxes provide birds shelter, not food.

Materials

While most bird boxes are constructed of wood, they can also be created using other materials such as plastic or metal, or made from preexisting objects. Plastic birdhouses are not suitable as they tend to generate high temperatures. Bird boxes can be built or purchased ready-made in various sizes, shapes and colors.

Purpose

Bird boxes offer wild birds a substitute for tree holes and other natural habitats and are utilized by numerous species across the world. People construct bird boxes near their homes to attract birds to their surroundings.

Benefits

These artificial homes can offer a better defense against predators and elements due to their durability and placement. Bird boxes have been widely used as a tool to protect endangered bird species all over the world.

Attracting Tenants to Your Bird Box

The necessary size and shape of a bird box are based on what kind of bird you wish to attract. Specific bird species have varying preferences.

Warning

Squirrels, mice and other mammals have been known to inhabit bird boxes or steal eggs from them. Protect your bird boxes from intruders by erecting or mounting them in suitable locations and making sure they have the proper size entrance holes.

References

• National Audubon Society
• The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds
• Bird Watchers Digest