best bluebird houses

The 5 Best Bluebird Houses: Bring Bluebirds to Your Backyard

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If you’re like most people, you love birds. They’re beautiful, sing beautifully, and add a touch of nature to our concrete-and-glass world. And if you’re an aspiring birdwatcher, nothing is more exciting than spotting a bluebird!

So what can you do to encourage these lovely creatures to visit your yard? One great way is to provide them with a place to live by putting up a bluebird house. But with so many on the market, how do you choose the best one for your needs?

Product Name
Top Predator Guard
Kettle Moraine Eastern Bluebird House Box
Weatherproof Joints
Whitehorse Premium Cedar Bird House
Simple to Install
Toobeett Bluebird Viewing House
Image
Kettle Moraine Eastern Bluebird Recycled Nest Box (Nest Box, Blue/Blue)
WHITEHORSE Premium Cedar Bird House - Weatherproof Design with a 15 sq inch Floor - A Bluebird Box House Built to NABS Specs - Enjoy Bird Watching While Supporting Birds (EABL)
Birdhouses Bluebird House Window Bird Houses for Viewing Water Proof Wax Dipped Solid Wood Bird Box Bluebird Houses for Outside with Metal Predator Guard TOOBEETT
Customer Rating
-
-
-
Material
Recycled Plastic
3/4" Western Cedar Wood (Solid)
Wood,Metal
Target Species
Bluebird
Eastern Bluebirds, Titmice, Chickadees, Brown-Headed Nuthatch, and others
Bluebird
Product Dimensions
7.25 x 9.5 x 11 inches
7.76 x 7.76 x 12.76 inches
7.6"D x 8.26"W x 11.79"H
Item Weight
5.5 Pounds
3.88 Pounds
4.85 Pounds
Top Predator Guard
Product Name
Kettle Moraine Eastern Bluebird House Box
Image
Kettle Moraine Eastern Bluebird Recycled Nest Box (Nest Box, Blue/Blue)
Customer Rating
-
Material
Recycled Plastic
Target Species
Bluebird
Product Dimensions
7.25 x 9.5 x 11 inches
Item Weight
5.5 Pounds
Weatherproof Joints
Product Name
Whitehorse Premium Cedar Bird House
Image
WHITEHORSE Premium Cedar Bird House - Weatherproof Design with a 15 sq inch Floor - A Bluebird Box House Built to NABS Specs - Enjoy Bird Watching While Supporting Birds (EABL)
Customer Rating
-
Material
3/4" Western Cedar Wood (Solid)
Target Species
Eastern Bluebirds, Titmice, Chickadees, Brown-Headed Nuthatch, and others
Product Dimensions
7.76 x 7.76 x 12.76 inches
Item Weight
3.88 Pounds
Simple to Install
Product Name
Toobeett Bluebird Viewing House
Image
Birdhouses Bluebird House Window Bird Houses for Viewing Water Proof Wax Dipped Solid Wood Bird Box Bluebird Houses for Outside with Metal Predator Guard TOOBEETT
Customer Rating
-
Material
Wood,Metal
Target Species
Bluebird
Product Dimensions
7.6"D x 8.26"W x 11.79"H
Item Weight
4.85 Pounds

Last update on 2024-03-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Look no further – we’re here to help! This article will introduce you to the 5 best bluebird houses available today. I’ll also give you tips on choosing the right one for your yard.

Whitehorse Premium Cedar Bird House

WHITEHORSE Premium Cedar Bird House - Weatherproof Design with a 15 sq inch Floor - A Bluebird Box House Built to NABS Specs - Enjoy Bird Watching While Supporting Birds (EABL)
  • WEATHERPROOF - Vent holes are cut at an upward angle to keep rainwater out; A double roof reduces overheating; Floor is recessed...
  • WELL-BUILT - Made from 3/4" thick western cedar wood; A stainless steel guard protects the entry hole; A 1" thick wooden guard...
  • EASY TO INSTALL - A great nestbox for creating a trail! Included: 4 exterior-grade screws, detailed installation tips, and our...

Last update on 2024-03-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Whitehorse Premium Cedar Bird House is a top-of-the-line birdhouse that is built to the North American Bluebird Society’s recommended specifications.

It features weatherproof joints to keep the elements out, a large front door for easy cleaning, and ventilation slots to keep your feathered friends comfortable.

The rough-sawn exterior gives it a rustic look that will complement any yard, while the natural cedar finish will age gracefully over time.

Metal guards can be added as an additional purchase, altering the entry size to target specific species.

The double-layered floor also helps keep pest insect larvae away from the nesting space. Although it is more costly than other options, the Whitehorse Premium Cedar Bird House is a high-quality product that will please any bird lover.

Pros

  • Built to North American Bluebird Society recommended specifications
  • Weatherproof joints
  • Optional metal guards to alter entry size for targeting species
  • The double-layered floor keeps pest insect larvae away from the nesting space

Cons

  • More costly than other options

Toobeett Bluebird Viewing House

Sale
Birdhouses Bluebird House Window Bird Houses for Viewing Water Proof Wax Dipped Solid Wood Bird Box Bluebird Houses for Outside with Metal Predator Guard TOOBEETT
  • Professional design with proper size: The base size is 5.1 X 4.9 inches (25 square inches) and timber thickness 0.78 inches with...
  • Water proof: The bird house is wax dipped to be water resistant, with tilted top cover and extra ventilation holes on both sides...
  • Convenient to view the birds: There is an observation window on one side equipped with a clear acrylic glass, allowing you to view...

Last update on 2024-03-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Toobeett Bluebird Viewing House is a great option for those looking for an easy-to-install and easy-to-clean birdhouse. The raised stainless steel floor on the base helps keep the interior dry, and the tilted top cover and extra ventilation holes on both sides help prevent rain from entering.

The observation window on one side is a great feature, allowing you to view the birds without interrupting their activity.

However, some users noted that the screws that come with the birdhouse are not very strong and do not hold the birdhouse in place well when mounted on a tree or timber pile.

Additionally, others found that the wax coating is not very water resistant and that the birdhouse does not stay dry during heavy rains. Overall, the Toobeett Bluebird Viewing House is a good option for those looking for an easy-to-use birdhouse with a viewing window.

Pros

  • Viewing window
  • Easy to clean
  • Simple to install

Cons

  • Screws may need replacing over time

Kettle Moraine Eastern Bluebird House Box

Kettle Moraine Eastern Bluebird Recycled Nest Box (Nest Box, Blue/Blue)
  • Made in the USA, of Recycled Milk Jugs!
  • 1-1/2" Entry with Copper Portal for Eastern Bluebirds
  • Stainless Steel Screw Construction

Last update on 2024-03-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Kettle Moraine Eastern Bluebird House is a high-quality birdhouse that is designed for eastern bluebirds. It has a recycled milk jug and stainless steel screw construction, which makes it predator-proof and very durable.

The predator guard with copper portal also provides excellent ventilation and drainage, while the fledgling ladder ensures that young birds can easily get in and out.

The flip-down front panel makes it easy to monitor the occupants, and the lifetime guarantee ensures that you’ll be able to enjoy this birdhouse for years to come.

The only downside is that it is a bit pricey, but it’s well worth the investment if you’re looking for a top-of-the-line birdhouse.

Pros

  • Excellent predator guard
  • Made from recycled materials
  • Steel screw construction
  • Wood-less design won’t rot or mold

Cons

  • Expensive

STARSWR Bird House

STARSWR Bird House for Outside,Outdoor Bird Houses, Natural Wooden Bird Hut Clearance Bluebird Finch Cardinals Hanger Birdhouse for Garden Viewing
  • NATURAL MATERIALS:The bird house is made of high-quality natural wood with exquisite handcraft,wooden birdhouses is great sturdy,...
  • PERFECT DESIGN: The beautiful drop shape outdoor bird house with wide bottom makes enough room to move. The diameter of the...
  • AIRY &SAFE:There is a door on the back of the birdhouse. Opening the door can make the birdhouse more ventilated. It can also be...

Last update on 2024-03-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The STARSWR Bird House is a high-quality, wooden birdhouse that is perfect for those who want to help out local birds. The house is finely crafted and very sturdy, making it a great option for those who are looking for an outdoor birdhouse.

The wide bottom makes it easy for birds to move around, and the diameter of the entrance is just right for most birds. Additionally, the platform at the entrance helps keep birds safe while they are feeding or protecting their young.

The back door allows you to easily clean the birdhouse, making it a very safe option. The STARSWR Bird House is also durable in high winds and heavy rains, making it a great option for those who live in areas with harsh weather conditions.

Pros

  • Made of high-quality natural wood
  • The beautiful drop shape and wide bottom make it roomy
  • Backdoor for easy cleaning and ventilation

Cons

  • Needs a deep clean before the first use

Kingsyard Bird House

Kingsyard Wooden Bluebird House, Bird House with Predator Guard, Nesting Box Birdhouse for Outside Wild Bird Watching, Royal Blue
  • HIGH QUALITY NATURAL WOOD: Thick, solid wood walls crafted from New Zealand Pine. Specialized design created to attract bluebirds...
  • VENTILATION: Air vents allow for maximum air flow through wall and floor openings, creating a comfortable environment that is...
  • EASY INSTALLATION & CLEAN WITH EASE: All hardware included is rust free, with flush mount options. Birdhouse arrives ready to...

Last update on 2024-03-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Kingsyard Bluebird House is a high-quality, wooden birdhouse that is designed to specifically attract bluebirds to your garden. Made from New Zealand Pine, this birdhouse is both sturdy and attractive, with air vents that allow for maximum airflow through the wall and floor openings.

The birdhouse arrives ready to install, with all hardware included (including rust-free flush mount options), and cleaning is easy with the included clean-out doors.

Additionally, the house features a predator guard to provide extra safety for young birds, as well as clear, crack-resistant windows for bird-watching.

Overall, the Kingsyard Bluebird House is a well-made and attractive birdhouse that is perfect for attracting bluebirds to your garden. The only downside is that it does not come with a mounting bracket, so you will need to purchase one separately if you want to attach it to a post or tree.

Pros

  • Features a predator guard
  • Easy cleaning
  • Crack-resistant windows
  • Made from New Zealand Pine

Cons

  • Does not come with a mounting bracket

What To Look for When Buying a Bluebird House

When buying a bluebird house, there are a few things you should keep in mind to get the best possible product.

First and foremost, you want to make sure that the birdhouse is made from high-quality materials that will be able to withstand the elements and last for years to come.

But there’s much more to a birdhouse than construction; here are some of the key things you should look for:

Size and Space

Bluebirds typically nest in cavities that are 1-1/2 inches in diameter, so make sure the entrance hole on the birdhouse is this size. If it’s too small, other birds may try to take over the house, and if it’s too big, predators could get inside.

You’ll also want to make sure that the birdhouse itself is large enough to accommodate a bluebird family. A good rule of thumb is that the house should be at least 4-5 inches wide and 6-8 inches tall.

Construction

As we mentioned before, you’ll want to make sure that the birdhouse is made from high-quality, durable materials. But there are other construction factors to consider as well.

For example, the birdhouse should have a slanted roof to keep the inside dry, and it should also have ventilation holes to ensure that the birds have enough airflow.

Predator Protection

Another important factor to consider is predator protection. Unfortunately, birds are often preyed upon by snakes, raccoons, and other animals.

To help protect the birds, look for birdhouses that have predator guards or that are made from metal or PVC pipe, which predators can’t chew through.

Fledging Kerfs

You’ll also want to make sure that the birdhouse has fledging kerfs, which are slits or notches cut into the sides of the house that allow young birds to climb out when they’re ready to leave the nest.

Cleaning

Double Roof

Temperature control is important in a birdhouse because it helps to protect the birds from extreme weather conditions.

The double roof on a bluebird house helps to keep the interior of the house cool in the summer and warm in the winter, which is essential for the birds’ comfort and survival.

Double Floor

The bluebird house should also have a double floor, which allows for drainage and easy cleaning. A double floor also keeps insect larvae and parasites from getting into the nest.

Ease of Cleaning

Last but not least, you’ll want to make sure that the birdhouse is easy to clean. Look for houses with removable floors or clean-out doors, so you can easily remove any debris or nesting material.

Do Bluebirds Need a Nesting Box?

Bluebirds are cavity nesters, which means they build their nests in holes or cavities in trees. However, since many of these natural nesting sites have been destroyed by human activity or taken over by other birds, bluebirds often rely on man-made nesting boxes to raise their young.

If you’re interested in attracting bluebirds to your yard, putting up a nesting box is a great way to do it. But there are a few things you should keep in mind when choosing and placing a nesting box:

  • Location – The first thing you’ll need to do is choose the location for your nesting box. Bluebirds prefer open areas with little or no vegetation, so avoid placing the box near trees, bushes, or tall grass. You’ll also want to ensure the box is placed in an area where it will get plenty of sun during the day.
  • Height – The nesting box should be placed about 5-6 feet off the ground, so the bluebirds can easily access it.
  • Predator Guards – As we mentioned before, bluebirds are often preyed upon by snakes, raccoons, and other animals. To help protect the birds, look for a nesting box that has predator guards or that is made from metal or PVC pipe, which predators can’t chew through.

North American Bluebird Society’s (NABS) Standards

The North American Bluebird Society (NABS) has developed standards for bluebird nest boxes, which are based on over 50 years of research. If you’re interested in building or buying a nesting box, we recommend following these guidelines:

  • Made from 3/4″ thick western cedar wood (untreated)
  • A roof overhang of 2 1/2″ on the front
  • Up-drilled air vents
  • Fledgling kerfs
  • Recessed floor and front door
  • Drainage holes in the floor
  • A 5″ drop (distance from the bottom of the entry hole to the floor)
  • Entry hole and floor for all species of bluebird
  • A double roof
  • A minimum size of 6″ x 6″ x 9″ (HxWxD) for Eastern and Mountain bluebirds, 7″ x 7″ x 10 1/2″ (HxWxD) for the Western bluebird

Tips for Attracting Bluebirds to Your Yard

In addition to providing a nesting box, there are a few other things you can do to attract bluebirds to your yard:

  • Provide a water source – Bluebirds are attracted to yards with water sources, so consider putting out a birdbath or small fountain.
  • Plant native plants – Native plants are a great source of food for bluebirds, so try to include some in your landscaping. Good choices include sunflowers, thistles, and berries.
  • Provide food – Bluebirds are insectivores, so they primarily eat insects. You can attract them to your yard by providing a source of food, such as live mealworms or insect-attracting plants.
  • Avoid using pesticides – Pesticides can kill the insects that bluebirds rely on for food, so it’s best to avoid using them in your yard. If you must use them, be sure to apply them only to the areas that are affected and not to the entire yard. Pesticides are also linked to lowered rates of reproduction in bluebirds.
  • Provide a nestbox – As we’ve mentioned, bluebirds are cavity nesters, so they need a nestbox to raise their young. Be sure to follow the guidelines we’ve listed above to ensure that the box is up to the standards set by the North American Bluebird Society.

With a little effort, you can attract bluebirds to your yard and enjoy watching these beautiful birds up close!

FAQ

What Is the Best Bluebird House Design?

The best bluebird house design is one that meets the guidelines set by the North American Bluebird Society.

The box should be made from 3/4″ thick western cedar wood, have a roof overhang of 2 1/2″ on the front, up-drilled air vents, and a 5″ drop (distance from the bottom of the entry hole to the floor).

It should also have a double roof and be a minimum size of 6″ x 6″ x 9″ (HxWxD) for Eastern and Mountain bluebirds, 7″ x 7″ x 10 1/2″ (HxWxD) for the Western bluebird.

What Color Houses Do Bluebirds Prefer?

There is no definitive answer to this question, as bluebirds have been known to nest in houses of different colors.

When Should Bluebird Houses Be Put Up?

Bluebird houses can be put up at any time of year, but it’s best to do it before the breeding season starts, which is typically in early spring. This will give the bluebirds a chance to claim the house and start nesting.

Which Way Do You Face a Bluebird House?

Bluebird houses should be facing east or southeast to protect them from the sun and wind.

Do Bluebird Houses Need a Perch?

No, bluebirds do not require a perch on their nest box. In fact, perches can actually be dangerous, as they can give predators a place to perch while they reach into the box to steal eggs or young birds.

Can I mount a bluebird house on a tree?

Yes, bluebird houses can be mounted on trees. However, it’s important to make sure that the box is at least 5 feet off the ground to protect the birds from predators.

How Often Do I Need to Clean a Bluebird House?

It’s important to clean out bluebird houses after every brood of chicks has fledged (left the nest). This helps to prevent the spread of disease and parasites and keeps the house in good condition for the next nesting season.

Some sources suggest cleaning the house after every breeding season; however, a pair of bluebirds can have multiple broods in a season, so it’s best to clean the house after each one. This typically means cleaning the house 3-4 times per year.

To clean a bluebird house, remove all the nesting material from the box and scrub it with a solution of 1 part bleach to 9 parts water. Rinse it well and allow it to dry completely before putting it back up.

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