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What Types of Birdhouse Do Bluebirds Use?

Bluebirds are cavity-dwelling birds that nest in spaces created by other birds; in the wild, they often live in abandoned woodpecker holes. To attract bluebirds to your backyard, select a birdhouse designed specifically for bluebirds. Other considerations include the size of the birdhouse and what it is made out of. Also determine if the house can protect the bluebirds from the weather and predators.

Size
- A birdhouse for an Eastern bluebird should have a floor that is either 4- or 5-inches square, and it should stand 8 to 12 inches in height. Look for a birdhouse with entry holes that are circular, rectangular or oval. The circular hole should be 1 1/2 inches in diameter; a rectangular hole should be 1 1/8-inch across and oriented horizontally. An oval hole should be oriented vertically and 1 3/8-inches across and 2 1/4-inches high. Mountain and Western bluebirds need slightly larger birdhouses and entry holes, with 5-inch or 5 1/2-inch square floors. These larger birds should only use circular holes; the Western bluebird needs a hole that is 1 1/2 inches in diameter, and the mountain bluebird needs a hole that is 1 9/16 inches in diameter.
Construction Material
- Most bluebird houses are made of wood, but not every type of wood is ideal for a birdhouse. Bluebird enthusiasts typically recommend cedar or redwood, as they are durable and resistant to bugs and weather. You can use other natural woods and even plywood, but the planks should be at least 3/4-inch thick. Avoid using pressure-treated wood because it can contain chemicals that is harmful to birds. You can paint the outside of the birdhouse or leave it natural, but the interior of the birdhouse should always be left natural.
Placement
- Place birdhouses for bluebirds in open areas with a few trees and other perching areas, including fences or wires. The entrance hole should be about 5 feet from the ground and face away from the general wind direction. If you would like to place more than one birdhouse, space the houses to allow the birds some privacy. Mount Eastern bluebird birdhouses between 125 and 150 yards apart and mountain bluebird houses 200 to 300 yards apart; and place houses for Western bluebirds about 100 yards apart.
Predator Protection
- To protect bluebirds from predators, bluebird houses should not have a perch on them. Bluebirds do not use perches, and a perch will only attract predators and other species of birds. Mount the house on a greased pole or baffle to deter cats and squirrels. The house must have a roof overhang of at least 5 inches over the entrance to deter other predators from trying to get into the house from the top.

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