- 1). Become familiar with your area's native bird species. Read wildlife literature at your local municipal and county parks to find out which birds inhabit your area. Look through aviary books in your local library regarding these native species to find their preferences for birdhouse height, location and food.
- 2). Put up your birdhouses in summer or early fall to make them accessible well before breeding season in the spring. Many species begin to find places to nest prior to late fall and winter, so erect your birdhouse in the summer or the first part of fall to provide a nesting location for seasonal breeding. This also gives potential residents a refuge during the winter months, as well as time to build a nest. If you have more than one birdhouse, place them at least 25 feet apart so the birds do not to invade each other's territory.
- 3). Place your birdhouse on a poll in moderate shade or a grassy, sunny area. Keep your birdhouses clear of dense areas or trees where cats or predators can hide or gain access to the house. Some bird species prefer sunny, open spaces for nesting. Other species prefer moderately shaded areas. Place your birdhouse in an area most attractive to native species.
- 4). Entice birds to your houses by providing food and water. Start by using a tube feeder. Tube feeders are ideal because they are more accessible to birds than squirrels. What's more, tube feeders allow you to see the bird food level and they protect feed from moisture, which leads to premature spoilage. In addition, put up a birdbath for bathing and drinking water. Place the food and water far away from the birdhouses so that other birds don't scare away potential nesters.
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