We’re passionate about birds and nature. That’s why we opened a Wild Birds Unlimited Nature Shop in our community.
Willa Springs Shopping Center,
5687 Red Bug Lake Road
Winter Springs, FL 32708
Phone: (407) 695-0526
Email: Send Message
Store Hours:
Mon - Sat: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Sun: 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
Additional Website:
Visit our other website
Spring is an exciting time for bird lovers! This is when many bird species will build a nest and raise their young. Some species, such as cardinals and blue jays, prefer an “open” nest in a tree or bush. Others, like wrens and bluebirds, are “cavity” nesters and will look for an enclosed space to nest – like in a bird house.
Each year, we get many questions about nesting and bird houses. Here are the five that we hear most often:
What do I do if I find a baby bird?
Unless the bird is clearly injured or in imminent danger of predation, the short answer is to leave it alone. Baby birds often leave the nest before they are fully fledged and odds are Mom and Dad know exactly where their baby is. Birds look for food constantly, leaving babies unattended while they do so. If you move the baby, the chances of survival are drastically reduced even in the hands of a capable rehabilitation expert. You should never, ever try to rehab a bird at home. It is very unlikely to survive and requires state/federal permits to do so legally.
Are all bird houses the same?
Definitely not. Depending on the species you’re hoping to attract, the dimensions of the box and the diameter of the hole make a big difference. If the hole is too big, the risk of predation may keep smaller birds away. You want to be sure to select the specific hole size for the birds you hope to attract. The thickness of the walls also makes a difference for guarding against the elements.
Should I paint/stain my new bird house?
While there are many varieties of bird houses available in every material imaginable, the safest nest boxes are those made of wood or recycled plastic, with the proper dimensions, and no paint or stain.
I bought a bird house, how high should it be?
Different species have different “ideal” heights for nest boxes ranging from five to 30 feet. If you’re not sure, a good rule of thumb is 10 feet off the ground. For owl boxes, be sure to place them with no branches directly under the box so they can easily find and access it.
I put up a bird house ages ago and no one moved in. What gives?
Birds are finicky creatures. They tend to wait for new houses and feeders to become part of the environment (i.e. get that “lived in” look) before they take to it. If no one has moved in within a year or two, consider placing it in a new location in your yard. Also, make sure nest boxes are far enough from feeders that nesting birds don’t feel threatened by the feeder activity.
Nesting season can be a lot of fun and there’s not much cuter than a fledgling bird. Keeping these tips in mind can help you enjoy your birds while also keeping them safe.
