Resources < Wildlife Habitats < Guide to Native Plants of Georgia for Wildlife < Nesting Boxes

Nesting Boxes

While birds are using their boxes, discourage pets or loud, unusual activity near the box. This may cause the nesting pair to abandon the nest. Once young birds leave the nestbox, they enter a “fledging” stage. These young birds will be closely supervised by their parents for the 2-3 days, until they learn how to fly. Fledglings may hop along low shrubbery or even onto the ground. Remember this is a normal part of being a bird! The best way you can help is by loose pets indoors during this crucial stage in the birds’ life.

Tips for using nesting boxes

Follow exact specifications established by wildlife professionals for dimensions of each bird house interior size, depth, entrance size, entrance above floor, and height above ground. See specifications.

Choose the correct habitat to match the type of bird you are trying to attract.

Provide a predator guard to ensure safety from cats and other tree-climbing predators.

Allow plenty of time for painted birdhouses to become free of odors by hanging them outside several weeks before the nesting season.

Place the entrance hole in a southerly direction to protect against cold northerly winds.

Provide a slightly rough inner surface to the birdhouse to provide a means for nestlings to fledge by climbing out of the birdhouse.

Securely fasten the birdhouse with wire or nails to ensure against motion by high winds.

Have an adult inspect the house occasionally for invasion by fire ants and wasps.

Use woods which have natural weather resistant properties such as cedars.

Move a house that has remained unoccupied for more than one season to a different location.

Attempt to place birdhouses as early as February and March for the advent of mating season.

Allow adequate ventilation and drainage holes.

Check the nest and nestlings occasionally. Clean a house after each season.