Hanging a birdhouse is a great way to provide garden birds with a safe nesting place. But where should you hang a birdhouse to make it optimally attractive to birds? In this blog you will learn the best location, height and orientation for a birdhouse, so that you can get the most enjoyment from nesting birds in your garden.
Why hang a birdhouse?
Birdhouses provide birds with a safe place to nest and shelter from predators and bad weather. In many urban areas, natural nesting sites, such as hollow trees, are scarce. By installing a birdhouse, you not only help the bird population, but you also enjoy more life in your garden.
At what height should you hang a birdhouse?
The ideal height depends on the bird species you want to attract:
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Tits and sparrows : 1.5 to 2 metres high.
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Nuthatches and woodpeckers : 2 to 4 metres high.
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Owls and large birds : Minimum 3 meters high.
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Robins and wrens : Around 1 to 1.5 metres, often in dense vegetation.
In which direction should the entrance hole point?
The direction of the entrance hole affects the safety and comfort of the birds. It is advisable to:
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Do not point towards the south to prevent overheating.
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Preferably place it facing east or northeast , so that the house is protected from rain and strong winds.
Where in the garden is the best place to hang a birdhouse?
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In a quiet location : Hang the house in a location where there is little human activity to minimize disturbance.
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Not too close to feeding places : Make sure the house is hung at a sufficient distance from feeding places to avoid competition and unrest.
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Protected from predators : Make sure that cats and martens do not have easy access to the birdhouse.
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Avoid direct sunlight : A spot with partial shade is ideal, so that it does not get too hot inside the house.
What do you use to attach a birdhouse?
Use sturdy fasteners, such as stainless steel screws or a hanging hook. Avoid nails in trees, as this can cause damage to the tree. An alternative is a fastening strap around the trunk.
When should you hang a birdhouse?
The best time to put up a birdhouse is in the fall or early winter . Many birds start looking for a nesting site in early spring, so a house that is already in place will be more likely to be accepted.
Maintenance and cleaning
A birdhouse should be cleaned annually, preferably in the fall. Remove old nests and rinse the house with hot water. Do not use cleaning agents, as these can be harmful to the birds.
Conclusion
Properly hanging a birdhouse increases the chance that birds will use it. Ensure the correct height, a safe location and the optimal orientation. In this way you offer birds a nice place to nest and contribute to the biodiversity in your garden.
Want to buy a birdhouse? Check out our range and give garden birds a safe place in your garden.
