How to Hang a Bird House: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re looking to attract birds to your backyard, a birdhouse is a perfect way to do it. Not only are they fun to watch, they can also help control the population of pesky insects.

In this guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of hanging a birdhouse. We’ll provide tips on where to hang it, as well as how to make sure your feathered friends have a cozy place to call home. All that being said, let’s get started.

Where is The Best Place to Hang a Birdhouse?

The best place to hang a birdhouse is in an area where there are trees or shrubs. This will provide shelter for the birds and protect them from predators. You’ll also want to make sure the birdhouse is close to a water source, as birds need water for drinking and bathing.

When it comes to height, you’ll want to hang the birdhouse between five and ten feet off the ground. This will give the birds a safe place to nest and raise their young. Nesting birds are also more likely to use a birdhouse that is closer to the ground.

How to Choose the Right Birdhouse to Attract Birds?

When choosing a birdhouse, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. Here are a few tips:

1. The size of the birdhouse

The first thing you’ll want to consider is the size of the birdhouse. Make sure to choose a size that is appropriate for the type of bird you’re hoping to attract.

2. The material

The material of the birdhouse is also important. You’ll want to choose a material that is durable, and weather-resistant. Cedar and pine are good choices, as they will last for many years.

3. The design

The design of the birdhouse is another factor that you’ll want to consider. Make sure to choose a design that has ventilation holes and a drainage hole. This will ensure that the birdhouse is comfortable for the birds, and that it doesn’t get too wet inside.

4. Hang the birdhouse at the right height

As we mentioned before, you’ll want to hang the birdhouse at the height of five to ten feet. This will give the birds a safe place to nest and raise their young.

Now that you know how to choose the right birdhouse let’s move on to the next step: hanging it.

Step By Step Instructions: How to Hang a Bird House

Hanging a birdhouse is a great way to attract birds to your yard, and enjoy their beauty. Here are simple steps to follow to hang your birdhouse properly.

What you need:

  • A birdhouse
  • A screw
  • A drill
  • Masonry bit (if you are attaching the birdhouse to brick or stone)
  • Paint or sealant (optional)

Now that you have gathered your supplies, follow these steps:

Step 1:
Pick a location

The best place to hang a birdhouse is six to ten feet off the ground in an open area away from trees or bushes. This will give the birds a clear approach to the house and protect them from predators.

If you are hanging the house on a tree, be sure to pick a location that is at least six feet from the trunk of the tree to avoid squirrels and other animals from raiding the birdhouse.

Step 2:
Drill a pilot hole

Using a masonry bit, drill a pilot hole into the side of the birdhouse. If you are attaching the house to wood, you can use a regular drill bit. To avoid the house from spinning while you are drilling, it is helpful to put a piece of tape on the birdhouse where you will be drilling.

Step 3:
Screw in the hook

Now, take your screw and attach it to the pilot hole. Be careful not to make the hole too big, or else the screw will not grip properly. This is what will hold the birdhouse in place, so you’ll want to make sure it is secure.

Step 4:
Hang the birdhouse

Now, it is time to hang your birdhouse. Bring it to the location you picked out earlier, and screw in the hook. If you are attaching the house to a tree, be sure to use a nail or screw that is long enough to go through the thickness of the tree. If the nail or screw is not long enough, the weight of the birdhouse could cause it to fall and hurt the birds.

Step 5:
Add paint or sealant (optional)

If you want, you can add a coat of paint or sealant to the birdhouse. This is not necessary, but it will help protect the house from the elements.

Just like that, you’re finished. Now you can sit back and enjoy watching the birds as they use their new home. If you follow these steps, you will be sure to have a successful birdhouse that will last for years.

Different Types of Bird Houses

There are many different types of birdhouses that you can choose from. The type of birdhouse you choose will depend on the type of bird you want to attract, and the style you are looking for. Here are a few popular choices:

1. The gourd birdhouse

The gourd birdhouse is a popular choice for many bird enthusiasts. Gourds are easy to grow, and make a great home for birds. You can find gourd birdhouses at many stores, or you can even make your own.

2. The mason jar birdhouse

The mason jar birdhouse is a unique and stylish choice. These houses are made from recycled mason jars, and are perfect for small birds.

3. The log cabin birdhouse

The log cabin birdhouse is a rustic choice that will give your yard a country feel. These houses are made from real logs, and are sure to be a hit with the birds.

4. Songbird house

The songbird house is a great choice if you are looking to attract birds that sing. These houses come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and can be hung from a tree or mounted on a pole.

5. Bluebird and tree swallow house

The bluebird and tree swallow house is a great choice if you live in an area with these types of birds. These houses are made specifically for bluebirds and tree swallows, and have special features to attract them.

6. Purple Martins House

Purple martin houses are perhaps the most “glamorous” of all the houses intended for backyard birds. These large, gregarious swallows have been known to nest in colonies containing hundreds of pairs.

7. Finch Bird House

Finch birdhouses are small, and have a hole that is about one and a quarter inches. The house should be hung about six to eight feet off the ground in a location that is protected from the wind, and has good drainage.

8. Woodpecker House

A woodpecker house should be hung about 12-20 feet off the ground in an open area, away from trees or other structures. The entrance hole should be facing away from the prevailing wind and sun.

9. Bluebird House

Bluebirds are some of the most beautiful and docile backyard birds. They are also relatively easy to attract to your yard with the right type of birdhouse.

As you can see, there are many different types of birdhouses to choose from. No matter what type of bird you are looking to attract, there is likely a birdhouse that will suit your needs.

How do we Encourage Birds to use Birdhouses?

The best way to encourage birds to use your birdhouse is to place it in a location that is ideal for the type of bird you are trying to attract.

Bird species have different preferences for things like height, location, and type of habitat. Be sure to do your research before placing your birdhouse.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can use either wood glue or nails to build your birdhouse. If you’re using wood glue, apply it to the back wall of each side wall, and the front edge of the roof. Then, align the walls with the base and press them together. Finally, attach the roof to the top of the walls using nails or wood screws.

No, cavity-nesting birds do not need a perch to use a birdhouse. Perches are only needed for birds that build their nests on ledges or in trees. Bird feeder perches are also not needed, as birds can easily grip the wire or metal of a feeder without a perch.

No, mounting birdhouses on a pole will not keep predators away. However, it can make it more difficult for predators to reach the birdhouse.

The front and back walls of the birdhouse should be at least five-eighths of an inch thick. The sidewall can be thinner, but it should still be at least a quarter of an inch thick.

Hanging a birdhouse is a fun and easy way to attract birds to your yard or garden. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, and keep an eye on the birdhouse regularly to make sure it is in good condition. With a little patience, you will soon be enjoying the sights and sounds of birds in your own backyard.