Gourd birdhouses have become a popular sight in many backyards and gardens. These decorative birdhouses are made from hollowed out gourds, often decorated with paint, carvings or other embellishments. Many people enjoy their rustic, natural look. But an important question remains – do birds actually use gourd birdhouses?
In short, yes, birds will use properly made gourd birdhouses. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. The size and opening of the gourd, placement, and competition from other nest sites all factor into whether wild birds will take up residence. Properly preparing and siting gourd birdhouses can increase your chances of attracting feathered tenants.
What types of birds use gourd birdhouses?
Many common backyard birds will potentially nest in gourd houses. Species that are cavity nesters and use tree hollows or nest boxes are the most likely residents. This includes:
- Chickadees
- Titmouse
- Wrens
- Bluebirds
- House finches
- Purple martins
- Swallows
- Nuthatches
- Woodpeckers
The size of the entrance hole will determine which breeds can access it. Smaller openings around 1 inch will attract chickadees, nuthatches and wrens. Larger holes of 1.5 – 2 inches will appeal to bluebirds, some woodpeckers, house finches and martins. Proper hole sizing and gourd depth are key factors.
Preparing gourd birdhouses for use
Gourds require some preparation before birds can use them as nesting sites. Follow these tips to create an attractive habitat:
– Choose large, round gourds. They should be at least 6 inches in diameter. The gourd walls should be a minimum of 1/2 inch thick once dried.
– Clean out seeds and fibers from the interior. Scrub with a disinfectant solution of 1 part bleach to 9 parts water. Allow to dry fully.
– Cut an entrance hole with the appropriate dimensions for desired bird species. The hole should be 5 to 6 inches above the bottom of the gourd.
– Drill ventilation holes in the top or include slits on the sides for airflow. This allows heat to escape.
– Add drainage holes in the bottom to allow rainwater to flow out.
– Hang the finished gourd using weatherproof string or wire. Face the entrance hole away from prevailing winds.
– Apply exterior decorations lightly if desired. Avoid covering the entrance hole or ventilation gaps.
– Monitor for pests like wasps and bees before each season. Clean and disinfect again if needed.
Proper drying and cleaning of the inner gourd is critical. Rot, mold and mildew can make a house uninhabitable. Take time to prepare the birdhouse correctly before installation.
Where to place gourd birdhouses
Proper placement is key to encouraging birds to utilize your gourd house. Here are some tips:
– Mount the gourd on a tree, post or under the eaves of a building. Place 5 – 10 feet off the ground.
– Choose a location with some shade to avoid overheating. Face the hole away from prevailing winds and rains.
– Separate multiple gourds by at least 20 – 25 feet to reduce competition. Avoid facing holes at each other.
– Place near natural food and water sources. Position it close to trees and shrubs that offer cover and perches.
– Install early in spring before breeding season when competition for nest sites peaks.
– For purple martins, place houses in open areas clear of trees and cover. Mount 15 – 20 feet high on metal poles.
– Clean out old nests each season to improve appeal. Avoid using pesticides near the birdhouse.
Siting the gourd house thoughtfully can encourage birds to choose it over other options like tree cavities or wooden nest boxes. Give them adequate room, safety and comfort.
Do gourds offer benefits over wooden nest boxes?
Gourd houses have some advantages that may attract birds over more common wooden nesting boxes:
– Natural appeal. The organic, biodegradable gourd blends into outdoor environments easily.
– Insulating properties. Gourd walls seem to maintain warmer or cooler temperatures than wood or metal.
– Durability. Dried gourds are extremely tough and can last for many years.
– Good ventilation. The semi-porous shell has airflow to prevent overheating.
– Low maintenance. Cleaning and annual maintenance needs are minimal compared to wooden houses.
– Decorative look. Painted and carved gourds allow for personal artistic expression.
The natural insulating factor is key. Gourd houses tend to stay cooler in summer and warmer in winter due to the shell thickness. The stable interior temperatures can help eggs and young develop optimally.
Limitations of gourd birdhouses
While suitable for many bird species, gourd houses also have some disadvantages or limitations to consider:
– Limited number of compartments. Unlike multi-unit wooden nest boxes, most gourds only offer one nesting chamber.
– Smaller interior size. The inner space may prohibit larger species or multiple breeding pairs.
– Improper drying can cause mold. Gourds that are too fresh can rot and grow toxic fungus.
– Less durable exteriors. Although the shell is solid, painted exteriors can fade or chip over time.
– Shorter lifespan than wood. Gourds typically only last 3 – 5 years with proper care compared to wood lasting up to a decade.
– Lightweight. Larger gourds or those mounted without additional weight may sway or spin in the wind.
– Vulnerable to weather damage. Hail, high winds and extreme cold cause more wear than wooden houses.
While gourd houses offer benefits, the smaller space, shorter lifespan and potential issues from improper curing can make wood, plastic or concrete alternatives more suitable in some settings.
Tips for making a gourd house more attractive to birds
If your gourd house is remaining vacant, there are some additional tactics to make it more enticing to wild birds:
– Add perches or landing pads. Glue wooden dowels or small shelves near the entrance hole to provide landing spots.
– Include nesting materials. Add 2-3 inches of wood shavings, straw, twigs or other natural materials to kickstart nest building.
– Angle the opening downward slightly. This blocks wind and rain from entering the cavity.
– Paint or decorate the exterior. Bright colors and motifs grab attention but avoid covering holes.
– Install predator guards. Place metal collars or guards below the entry hole to deter snakes, raccoons and cats.
– Move to a quieter location. Choose a spot distant from feeders and high traffic areas.
– Relocate annually. Rotating houses to a new location every year can spark interest.
With some adjustments and enticements, you may be able to convince reluctant birds to give your gourd house a try. Observe activity levels and make changes as needed until you find the right formula.
Monitoring and maintenance tips
Check over your gourd birdhouses regularly to keep them safe and usable:
– Inspect annually for damage, rot, mold or pests. Discard gourds at the first sign of weakness or holes.
– Clean out old nests and droppings after baby birds fledge each season. Scrub the interior with bleach.
– Refresh protective finishes if needed. Re-apply stain, sealants or paint every 2-3 years.
– Tighten any cords, wires or hangers that become loose. Add weights if swaying becomes excessive.
– Ensure ventilation holes remain clear. Enlarge holes that become clogged with debris.
– Replace faded exterior decorations. Avoid covering holes or adding perches.
– Monitor for aggressive birds or wasps. Remove nests of sparrows, starlings or other invasive species.
– Move the gourd to a new location periodically. Mimic natural cavity dynamics.
Annual maintenance is vital to ensure your gourd house remains fully functional and safe for wild birds looking for a home.
Conclusion
Gourd birdhouses can become a beloved part of your garden when properly prepared and cared for. Their natural beauty and insulating properties attract many common backyard birds. Carefully follow tips for cleaning, siting and annual maintenance to increase your chances of enticing feathered couples to move in. Be patient, as it may take some experimenting to find the ideal placement to suit local species. With a bit of luck, your decorative gourd will soon host a lively brood of chicks.
