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Box Setup
While we prefer to setup boxes in the fall, to allow the bluebirds to
become aware of their location before the mating season in the spring, they can be set up at anytime throughout the year.
Boxes may not have inhabitants the first season they are set up and if there are no residents within the first two seasons
of setup it might be a good idea to choose another location.
Boxes should preferably be:
- posted on metal poles (this makes it more difficult for snakes and other
predators to gain access)
- placed with pole firmly planted in the ground to keep it stable
- in a somewhat protected location but not too close to trees (also makes
it more difficult for predators to access)
- provided with a baffle, to deter predators (these can be purchased at
the same place the box itself was purchased)
Box Maintenance
After each clutch has fledged, nests should be cleaned out. Throughout
the year, especially prior to and during the nesting season it is important to check for pests, such as earwigs, hornets
and even other animal species which may enter the boxes and discourage bluebirds. One trick to keep hornets/wasps away
is to rub a bar of soap along the inside top of the nest which discourages them from building in the box. Other insects
can be treated with pesticides but it is important to keep them as "green" and environmentally safe as possible.
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