Do you love watching birds visit your garden? Unfortunately, due to increasing urbanization, severe deforestation, and the extensive use of certain chemicals, these charming winged companions are finding it increasingly difficult to survive.

Why not give them a helping hand by installing a suitable birdhouse in your outdoor space? Here’s everything you need to know to sustainably attract these valuable allies.

Why welcome birds with a birdhouse?

Natural habitats necessary for birds to nest, such as hollow trees or hedgerows, are becoming scarce. Offering them a birdhouse in your garden is an excellent solution to compensate for these losses and protect local species.

In addition to providing concrete help to the birds, this offers you real benefits:

  • A secure shelter for cavity-nesting species like blue tits or sparrows, which typically need natural cavities that are hard to find today.
  • An effective way to naturally regulate the populations of harmful insects in your garden, thus avoiding the use of chemical pesticides.
  • A unique opportunity to closely observe the fascinating lives of birds, from nesting to the fledging of young.
  • A personal and concrete gesture to actively contribute to biodiversity in your immediate environment.

Which type of birdhouse for which bird?

Before choosing a birdhouse, do you know which species frequent your garden? Remember that each type of bird has specific preferences for nesting. There’s no use installing a shelter that will remain empty all year!

Choosing the model according to the species

Here are the most suitable models according to the birds you wish to attract:

  • Closed birdhouse with a entrance hole: Choose a precise diameter based on the birds.
    • 28 mm for blue tits
    • 32 mm for great tits and house sparrows
    • 45 mm for starlings
  • Semi-open birdhouse: Perfect for robins, flycatchers, or wagtails.
  • Specialized birdhouse: Designed for certain species with specific needs like swallows, owls, or black martins.

Recommended materials for a durable birdhouse

To ensure comfort and safety for your feathered visitors, pay attention to the following points:

  • Prefer untreated natural wood, at least 15 mm thick. This material provides excellent thermal insulation.
  • A sloping roof will help effectively drain rainwater.
  • Avoid any perches below the entrance; they provide easy access for predators like cats or crows.
  • Opt for a model that is easy to open for annual cleaning.

Effectively installing your birdhouse: our tips

Did you know that the location greatly influences the occupancy of the birdhouse? Forget the idea of placing it randomly; birds are picky when it comes to safety and orientation.

Position it with the entrance facing east or southeast, which protects the birdhouse from weather extremes and wind while avoiding prolonged sun exposure.

Depending on the species, respect these installation heights:

  • Between 1.5 and 2 meters high for robins and wrens
  • From 2 to 4 meters for tits and sparrows
  • Over 4 meters for nocturnal raptors (owls, barn owls)

Also, ensure your birdhouses are well-protected by:

  • Using screws or a coated cable to securely attach them to your chosen support (wall, tree).
  • Installing a metal collar around the trunk to prevent predators from reaching the birdhouse.
  • Avoiding installation near branches that could facilitate access for curious cats and squirrels!

Taking care of the birdhouse in the long term

To ensure that your birdhouse remains welcoming season after season, don’t neglect its inspection and annual maintenance.

Each autumn, after the breeding season, clean by removing the old nest and brushing with only hot water. Avoid using any chemicals. Also check the overall condition of the birdhouse and the attachment points.

Keep in mind that it’s best to avoid any disturbance during the nesting period: let your feathered friends enjoy their cozy shelter in peace.

Have you installed a birdhouse in your garden? What has been your experience with birds? Feel free to share your tips or anecdotes in the comments. Your feedback and experiences are important to us!