Nest Box Basics
Features of a Good Nest Box
Just like birds, nest boxes (birdhouses) come in many shapes and
sizes. The size of the nest box and the size of the entry
hole are variables that can be changed to make the nest box more
appropriate for a certain species. A nest box large enough
for a Wood Duck would not be a popular choice for chickadees, for
example.
Nest boxes can be homemade or purchased from commercial outlets. Some basic design features to look for include:
- untreated wood (pine, cedar, or fir)
- extended, sloped roof
- rough or grooved interior walls
- recessed floor
- drainage holes
- ventilation holes
- easy access for monitoring and cleaning
- sturdy construction
- no outside perches
The nest box should be durable, easy to check, and clean.
Before purchasing or building a nest box start by deciding which
species you want to attract, the availability of appropriate habitat,
and your ability to place the nest box in an appropriate location.
As an example, Prothonotary Warblers are beautiful birds and you might
decide to put up a Prothonotary Warbler nest box. However, Prothonotary
Warblers are primarily birds of southeastern woodland
swamps. To attract Prothonotary Warblers the nest box will
need to be in the right part of the country and in the right
habitat.
Please be a responsible landlord if you choose to put up a nest
box. Nest boxes should be monitored and maintained on a
regular basis. Unmonitored nest boxes can easily become
home to House Sparrows or European Starlings, two introduced species
that aggressively compete with native birds.
Visit the Lab's Birdhouse Network web site for additional information
on nest boxes and information on how you can participate in the study
of cavity-nesting birds.