by Christy Caplan|
December 3, 2023
What types of bird houses are important for winter?
Bird houses should be designed to provide protection from the elements, including snow and cold temperatures. They should also have a tight entrance hole that is small enough for the birds of interest to fit through, but not so small as to exclude larger birds. Some of the best bird houses for winter are made with insulated materials like wood or metal—ideally with some kind of weatherproof coating.
Bird House for PNW House Wrens
The PNW House Wren is common
Wrens are small, bold and don’t back down to other species. The House Wren is common in Washington. They have a short tail, thin bill and dark barring on their wings and tails. We hope our bird house will attract these birds this winter. They are one of the only birds that use a nest box hanging freely that’s not attached to a tree or post. Washington also has the Bewick’s Wren which isn’t as common as the House Wren. Listen to a Wren in this story.
What should you put in your birdhouse
Songbirds usually do not reuse their nests from year to year, requiring new materials every spring. Common choices for building a nest include moss, twigs, feathers, pine needles, shredded bark, soft grasses, yarn scraps, pieces of fabric and hair from humans, dogs or horses. I started with twigs and added lots of moss which we have everywhere in the yard. If you’re interested please use the below code and purchase your own bird house!
Please add the code wagandcluck for 15% off when you check out at Kingsyard!
What about building your own bird house?
If you’re a bird lover, then there’s no better way to attract these beautiful creatures into your backyard than by building your very own bird houses. Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or a complete beginner, building bird houses is a fun and rewarding activity that will give you the opportunity to connect with nature and observe the wonders of bird life up close.
Choosing the Right Materials
Before you start building your bird house, you’ll need to choose the right materials. Wood is the most common material used for building bird houses, but there are many different types of wood to choose from. Cedar and redwood are both popular choices, as they are naturally resistant to rot and insects. Pine and spruce are also good options, but they will need to be treated with a preservative to prevent rot and decay.
Picking the Perfect Design
There are many different designs to choose from when it comes to bird houses. The most important thing to keep in mind is that the bird house should be functional and safe for the birds. The size of the entrance hole, the depth of the nesting cavity, and the ventilation holes are all important factors to consider. There are bird house designs available online.
Building Techniques
Before you start building your bird house, it’s important to learn the proper techniques for construction. You will need a variety of tools, including saws, hammers, nails, and screws. It’s also helpful to have clamps and sandpaper on hand to help you achieve a smooth finish. Follow the bird house plans carefully, taking care to measure and cut each piece of wood exactly as directed. Sand the edges of the wood to prevent splinters.
Decorating and Finishing
Once your bird house is constructed, you can choose to decorate it in whatever way you like. Some people choose to stain or paint their bird houses, while others leave them natural. If you do decide to paint or stain your bird house, be sure to use non-toxic products that will not harm the birds.
Installation and Maintenance
Once your bird house is built and decorated, it’s time to install it in your yard. Choose a location that is safe and secure, away from predators and other hazards. You may also want to add a mounting pole or other support to ensure that your bird house stays stable and secure. Regular maintenance is also important to keep your bird house safe and attractive. Clean out the nesting cavity on a regular basis and replace any damaged or worn out parts as necessary.
Building your own bird houses is a fun and rewarding activity that allows you to create a safe and comfortable environment for the birds in your neighborhood.
