Let’s Build a Birdhouse! (Post 1 of 2)
Before we get started, just a quick note to let you know that the "Give the Latin Name to That Bird!" contest has closed. Thanks to all who entered... It’s good to know that we here at eBirdseed.com aren’t the only ones who are crazy about birds. We’ll have the name of the winner early next week.
It’s January, and here on Cape Cod, that can equate to some moist, frigid, windy temperatures. (Last night it was 7 degrees F outside.) The new picture below of Otis clearly shows the 10-degree wind blowing his left ear askew.
As we watched a cold grackle tentatively seek the shelter of Otis’s digs (an extraordinarily bad idea on the part of the grackle) the wife and I were struck by the need for more birdhouses on the property. And with that, a winter project was born.
We discussed this and decided that what we wanted was a house that met umpteen goals. The “bird bungalow” would need to:
As for the layout of the dwelling itself, hopefully the following rough design will give you an idea of what we’re shooting for.
‘Till next time...
See you by the feeders,
CapeCodAlan
It’s January, and here on Cape Cod, that can equate to some moist, frigid, windy temperatures. (Last night it was 7 degrees F outside.) The new picture below of Otis clearly shows the 10-degree wind blowing his left ear askew.
As we watched a cold grackle tentatively seek the shelter of Otis’s digs (an extraordinarily bad idea on the part of the grackle) the wife and I were struck by the need for more birdhouses on the property. And with that, a winter project was born.
We discussed this and decided that what we wanted was a house that met umpteen goals. The “bird bungalow” would need to:
- Attract small- to medium-sized birds such as chickadees, finches, catbirds, titmice, and, in an ideal world, bluebirds. (Looks like I’ll be talking with the boss about ordering some mealworms!)
- Be squirrel-proof.
- Allow for easy access and cleaning.
- Facilitate the possible retrofit of a roost for winter habitation. (During the cold months, birds will often huddle together on a protected roost for warmth.)
- Have a substantial roof overhang for rough-weather protection.
- Offer ventilation.
- Be easily constructed and mounted.
As for the layout of the dwelling itself, hopefully the following rough design will give you an idea of what we’re shooting for.
‘Till next time...
See you by the feeders,
CapeCodAlan
Comments
I have had my squirrel proof feeder up for a month and no birds. Why?
{Gordon Moe replies}
Dear Jack,
Thank you for your comment to our blog.
I'm not sure which squirrel proof feeder you are referring to since I only show that you have purchased seed from us. Anyhow, I'll take a stab at answering.
When folks call us with this concern we often pose these questions and remedies:
1. freshen up the seed AND the feeder. If you have had some rainy weather and the seed has been wet for a time, it is most likely molding. Birds can sense this and stay away since some molds are harmful to birds. Empty the feeder and wash it thoroughly with a solution of 10 parts water and 1 part bleach. Let it dry completely and refill with fresh seed.
2. make sure the feeder is located near some foliage. When birds feed in an open area they are making themselves vulnerable to cats, hawks and other predators. They like the comfort of branches and bushes and perches nearby.
3. The feeder should be some distance from your house - 10-12 feet at least until the birds return. Make sure there are no ornamental yard flags or wind chimes nearby.
4. Wild cats or even domestic cats keep some feeders bare. Make sure you keep your yard cat free. The feeder is about 5 feet from the ground.
Please experiment with these fixes. I have tried to list them in order of importance.
Sincerely,
Gordon
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Posted by: Jack A Boadway | February 12, 2007 6:40 PM
Just wanted to say I really enjoyed your post..
Posted by: Chairil Maxum | March 12, 2007 10:12 PM