How to Protect Bluebirds From Predators

Bluebirds have many predators and their habitat is at risk in many areas. There are several things one can do to help protect bluebirds from predators. However, there are some things to consider before trying to create a safe habitat for bluebirds, including locations around a yard or house and the bluebird species prevalent in a specific area.

Things You'll Need

  • Wood
  • Hammer
  • Wood glue/nails
  • Drill, drill bit
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Instructions

    • 1

      Contact your local conservation organization. Ask them if they have any kits for making or assembling bluebird houses.

    • 2

      Visit local hardware stores and pet shops to see if they sell bluebird houses or kits.

    • 3

      Build your own bluebird house if you can't find a kit or pre-assembled house at a store. Use wood 3/4- to 1-inch thick. Use a drill to make a 1-1/2 inch diameter hole to allow bluebirds to enter the house, 1-9/16 inches if building a house for mountain bluebirds. Install a door to allow for occasional cleaning. Slant the roof of the house, making sure to extend it a bit over the sides to keep rain out.

    • 4

      Place the bluebird house in yards or fields with scattered trees. Do not place it in a forest or a place surrounded by bushes -- predators can use the cover to sneak up on bluebirds. Also, do not put the house close to a barn or an area where you feed animals because the corn or feed being used could attract bluebird predators.

    • 5

      Place the bluebird house so its entry hole is at least 5 feet off the ground, this helps keep predators at bay.

    • 6

      Clean the bluebird's nest, if it builds one in the house. Check the nest at least once a week to see if it needs cleaning. After the baby bluebirds have left the nest, remove it. A simple way to ensure the nest is vacant is to watch it for four hours. If you see no activity over that span, it is safe to approach the nest for cleaning or removal.