Nest Box Placement

Location of nest box is an important decision

  • Select an open area with scattered trees and sparse ground cover.
  •  The availability of landing places such as low trees or gutters in the proximity of nest boxes is desirable to aid bluebird fledglings in their initial flight.
  • Areas that are typically wise nest box location choices include:
    • Mown lawns
    • Fields
    • Cemeteries
    • Meadows
    • Orchards
    • Road sides

Avoid: Underbrush, tall grass, dense woods, farm buildings and areas where pesticides are used.

Other nest box placement considerations

  • Ideally nest boxes should be mounted on metal poles (equipped with approved predator guards) approximately five feet above ground.
  • Orient the entrance of nest boxes away from the prevailing wind pattern and toward the Southeast if possible.
  • Mount nest boxes so they may be easily moved or repaired.
  • Nest boxes should ideally be in place by the end of February.

bluebirds-on-nestbox

Nest Box Plans

There are many varieties of nest box plans and mounting systems available. More information can be found on North American Bluebird Society (NABS).