3
Tree Swallow and Eastern Bluebird
The best habitat for Eastern bluebirds consists of areas comprised of
short grasses with nearby fence posts, high line wires, or sparse trees
where birds can perch. Bluebirds normally will not nest within city limits
or farmsteads where competition from house sparrows is intense.
For best results, nest boxes should be placed in pairs about 10-25 ft.
apart and 100-200 yds. between pairs. They should be 4-6 ft. above
the ground on steel posts or wood posts with predator guards. The
entrance hole should face in a general northeast direction to prevent
sun from shining in and overheating the box.
1-3/8"
Up
Side (2)
Front
Roof
Back
1/4" holes
Floor
5-1/2"
5-1/2"
5-1/2"
2-1/4"
5-1/2"
5-1/2"
Note: Entrance hole for
Great Crested Flycatcher
should be a round hole 1-3/4"
in diameter.
Note: These dimensions assume a 3/4" thick
board. Some cedar boards are 7/8" thick. If so,
the floor must be 3-3/4" wide, not 4" wide.
Pivot nail
in back
Nail holds
side closed
Pivot nail
in front
Two pivot nails allow side to swing out for
cleaning. use one nail at bottom to close side.
Lumber: One 1" x 6" x 6'
Back
Roof Front
Side Side Floor Waste
13-1/2" 8-1/4" 9" 9" 9" 4"
