How to Stop Squirrels From Enlarging Birdhouse Holes
Stop squirrels from enlarging birdhouse holes with a correctly sized metal entrance plate, safer mounting, predator baffles and better placement away from jump points.
Ants in a Nest Box: Prevention Without Disturbing Active Nests
Most ants in nest boxes need no treatment. Learn when fire ants are different, how to block them with pole-mounted barriers and what never to put inside a nest.
Wasps or Bees in a Birdhouse: What to Do Safely
Learn what to do about wasps or bees in a birdhouse, when to leave them alone, when to call a professional and why pesticides should stay out of nest boxes.
How to Monitor a Nest Box Without Disturbing the Birds
Monitor a nest box with less disturbance by checking every few days, keeping visits brief, avoiding bad weather and watching for adult stress.
Birdhouse on a Tree vs Pole: Mounting & Predator Trade-Offs
Compare tree- and pole-mounted birdhouses by predator access, baffle options, species fit, stability and monitoring so you can choose a safer setup.
Can You Paint a Birdhouse? Safe Colors & Coatings
Most birdhouses do not need paint. Learn when exterior paint can make sense, which colors to use, what to avoid and why the interior should stay unpainted.
How Far Apart Should Birdhouses Be? Nest Box Spacing Guide
Birdhouse spacing depends on species. Compare NestWatch spacing guidance for bluebirds, chickadees, wrens, swallows, nuthatches and other cavity nesters.
Should You Put Nesting Material in a Birdhouse?
Most birdhouses should be left empty so birds can build their own nest. Learn the exceptions for owls, ducks and some cavity nesters using wood shavings.
