2torial #0965:
Learn2 Build a Birdhouse (continued)

Protect, monitor, and clean the house

Your responsibilities don't end with setting up the house. To be a good landlord, you have to keep an eye out for your tenants. Here's how:

Protect. To be extra safe, you may want to set up a predator guard, especially if the birdhouse is mounted on wood. For a tree, try wrapping a large band of metal flashing around the trunk below the house. The band should be at least 36 inches (91 centimeters) in height. Punch a hole in each corner of the band, then string wire through the holes to tighten and tie it around the trunk.

For poles, a flat guard (two rectangular pieces of metal flashing, about 36 inches, or 91.4 centimeters, long, sandwiched over and screwed into the pole) works well. Screw the flashing into the pole, then screw the corners of the flashing together using screws and nuts.

Monitor. During the nesting season, you'll want to check the box regularly (about every 2 to 3 weeks) to be sure the right animals are inside it. To do this, simply tap the box so you don't surprise the tenants too much, then flip open the side door gently to look inside. Don't worry about scaring off any new tenants. Cavity-nesting birds can tolerate an occasional disturbance, although they may raise a fuss. Try not to touch the nest, but if you do, don't worry about "ruining" it with your smell. Most birds actually have a weak sense of smell and will return to the nest without a problem after you've left it.

Clean. If the birds have finished for the season, or if you find an unwanted occupant in the box during the season (like snakes or insects), clean out the box. Scoop out any old nesting materials and give the interior a quick blast with a hose. If you leave the house up through the winter, remember to give it another cleaning before the birds come back in the spring.

Once the nesting season is over, you can take your memories with you through the winter, and look forward to your fine feathered friends' return.

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