North
American Bluebird Society Approved
Dimensions: 10"
high x 6" wide x 8-1/2" deep
|
House sparrows have been known to kill
baby bluebirds as well as adults sitting
on the nest. This Kentucky style, slot
entrance bluebird house is designed to
thwart sparrows. According to research at
the University of Kentucky, bluebirds
prefer a slot entrance to the standard
circular hole -- sparrows prefer the
opposite. In addition, sparrows don't
like a shallow box and bluebirds don't
seem to mind. This box is only 5"
deep but if sparrows still continue to be
a problem, a wooden insert is included to
reduce the depth even more. Sparrows
rarely use the 3-1/2" depth, but
bluebirds will still occupy it.
Eastern Bluebirds can be found east of
the Rockies, throughout the eastern
United States and Canada, and down to
central Mexico. Some populations are
year-round residents, but others migrate
to more southerly latitudes for the
winter. Eastern Bluebirds are found in
suburban and rural habitats containing
sparse vegetation and scattered trees or
other perches. They typically nest in
fields, meadows, and orchards, avoiding
both densely wooded and congested
residential areas. The breeding season
begins anytime from mid-March to early
April.
Mount the Sparrow-resistant Bluebird
House so the entrance slot is
approximately five feet above the ground.
If possible, face the house away from
prevailing winds and facing towards a
tree or shrub which is within 100 feet of
the house. Trees and shrubs provide a
landing spot for the young bluebirds when
they first leave the house. This will
keep them off the ground, away from
predators. Eastern Bluebird Houses should
be spaced at least 100 to 150 yards
apart. |
