Wednesday, June 5, 2013

Points To Consider When Choosing Decorative Bird Houses

By Ladonna Chambers


Decorative bird houses are made in such an amazing variety of designs that they can enhance any garden. They are often exquisitely detailed in design but they need to be more than just beautiful to look at. It is important that they are also as functional as possible or they will not attract birds.

Many of these items are designed to look like human dwellings, from log cabins to Victorian manors. They are small works of art and are decorated with details like porches, pillars, shingled roofs and windows. When choosing a design it is important to bear in mind the style of house and garden where it is to be situated.

A bird house must be well constructed so as to stand up to the rigors of bad weather. Wood is normally used as it does not heat up as much as metal in the hot summer months and yet keeps warmth in during cooler months. Interiors are normally unpainted and the outside may be finished with non toxic paint.

It must also be constructed in such a way that it is easy to clean. Swinging sides, removable fronts and hinged roofs all make this process easier. Ventilation holes help fresh air to circulate and prevent the house from getting too hot. Drainage holes in the bottom let out water. This is important to keep mold and bacteria from multiplying. Some roof overhang will keep rain from going in to the entrance hole and will also help shade the interior on hot days.

When choosing dimensions, the species of birds must be considered. If it is too small growing birds will become increasingly uncomfortable. If it is too large and it will not be attractive to a nesting pair. Purple Martins love to nest in families and so they require many rooms. A woodpecker, on the other hand, is quite happy nesting on its own.

Floor space also matters. There are various designs containing numerous rooms to attract birds like Purple Martins. They like to nest together as families. There also needs to be enough room in a house for hatchlings to grow without becoming too cramped.

Birds are drawn to a house because of its function and location. This is why it needs to be positioned in such a way as to afford the most protection from bad weather and predators. Choosing how to mount it can also influence safety, depending on the type of predators around. For example, one mounted on a pole may be safer than one mounted in a tree as predators will find it more difficult to climb.

Decorative bird houses come in a wide variety of designs from simple classic ones with one compartment for a pair of lovebirds to a glorious many roomed hexagon shaped mansion. When choosing a style, the aesthetic appearance is one consideration but functionality is just as important. You are given a chance to protect and preserve a part of nature. Remember that different species require different kinds of housing, set it up in the right location and you will be given the chance to observe the habits of these beautiful creatures.




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