Many people enjoy seeing birds in their yard and attracting them by putting up bird houses or nest boxes. However, some people wonder if birds will actually use nest boxes placed on windows. The answer is that some birds will use window nest boxes, while others prefer more secluded locations.
What are the pros and cons of window nest boxes?
There are a few potential advantages to placing a nest box on a window:
– Visibility – You can easily see the birds going in and out of the nest and monitor their activity. This allows you to get a close-up view of nesting behaviors.
– Temperature – Windows receive sunlight which can help keep the nest box warm. Birds prefer warmer locations to lay their eggs.
– Protection – Being placed up high on a window can protect the nest from some ground predators.
However, there are also some potential downsides:
– Disturbance – The close proximity to human activity inside the house could disturb nesting birds.
– Lack of shelter – Being fully exposed on a window lacks the shelter and security of a more enclosed nest box.
– Predators – Nest boxes on windows can be more visible to aerial predators.
What types of birds use window nest boxes?
The species of bird that will use a window nest box depends on several factors:
– Nesting site preferences – Some birds have innate preferences for more concealed and protected nesting areas. Birds that build open, cup-shaped nests, like robins and barn swallows, are more likely to accept window boxes. Cavity nesters prefer more enclosed spaces.
– Nest height – Birds that build nests higher up, like house finches and swallows, are more likely to use window boxes than ground-nesting species.
– Predator abundance – If predatory birds are common in the area, window boxes will be avoided.
– Population pressure – When competition for nest sites is high, birds may reluctantly use marginal sites like window boxes.
Some common birds that can potentially use window nest boxes include:
– House finches
– Barn swallows
– Phoebes
– Robins
– Flycatchers
Should you place a nest box on a window?
The decision of whether or not to place a nest box on a window depends on several factors:
Pros
– Satisfaction of seeing the birds up close
– Learning about nesting behaviors
– Warmth and height appeal to some species
Cons
– Disturbance to birds
– Higher predation risk
– Some species strongly avoid
– Risk of window strikes
Tips
If trying a window nest box, follow these tips to increase chances of success:
– Choose a less frequently used window – Limit human disturbance.
– Place box near top of window – Keeps nest high and concealed.
– Add awnings or overhangs – Provides shade and shelter.
– Start early in season – Early nesters more likely to accept.
– Limit other food sources – Increase motivation to use box.
– Monitor activity – Be prepared to move box if issues arise.
What design of window nest box works best?
The exact design and placement of a window nest box can influence its success. Consider these factors:
Box size
– Match interior dimensions to target species.
– Robins, barn swallows – 4 x 6 inches
– Chickadees, nuthatches – 4 x 4 inches
– House finches – 5 x 6 inches
Height
– Place box near top of window – 10+ feet high.
– Allows birds to enter/exit while limiting visibility.
Protection
– Add overhang above box to provide shelter.
– Angled roof also deflects rain and sun.
– Attach securely to minimize movement.
Entry
– Circular entry hole 1 – 1 1/2 inches for small birds.
– Open front box better for robin and barn swallow nests.
Material
– Use untreated wood at least 3/4 inches thick.
– Avoid plastic which has poor insulation.
– Line interior with grass or pine needles.
What maintenance does a window nest box require?
To keep a window nest box safe and appealing for birds, certain maintenance is recommended:
Monitoring
– Watch for signs of nest building each season.
– Don’t disturb actively nesting birds.
– Keep track of nest success and failures.
Cleaning
– Gently remove old nest material after young have fledged.
– Clean interior with 10% bleach solution to prevent parasites.
– Allow box to air dry before replacing.
Repairs
– Inspect box annually for damage or holes.
– Fix cracks, replace rotten wood, re-secure loose openings.
Predator guards
– Attach metal predator guard below entrance hole.
– Prevents raccoons, cats, snakes from entering.
Removal
– Take down nest box if problems can’t be corrected.
– Alternatively, relocate box to better site.
What problems occur with window nest boxes?
Some potential problems to be aware of with window nest boxes include:
Nest abandonment
– Caused by disturbance, lack of shelter, or predators.
– Try relocating box or making adjustments.
Window strikes
– Birds can collide with windows when exiting the box.
– Place box on lightly used window or use deterrents.
Overheating
– Extreme heat inside exposed box can be dangerous.
– Provide shade, ventilation, or relocate box.
Predation
– More visible location leaves eggs and young vulnerable.
– Limit predators access with guards and placement.
Non-target species
– Species like house sparrows may forcibly take over nest box.
– Monitor activity and evict unwanted occupants.
Parasites and diseases
– Can be transmitted in uncleaned nest boxes.
– Follow proper cleaning procedures between seasons.
Conclusion
Window nest boxes can be beneficial by allowing close observation of nesting birds. However, they also carry certain risks that need to be minimized. Following proper design, placement, and maintenance practices will increase the chances of success. Monitor the nest box carefully and be adaptive to any issues that arise. With some adjustments, a window box can safely host beautiful breeding birds.
Bird Species | Nest Placement | Box Dimensions |
---|---|---|
House Finch | Near top of window, under eave | 5×6 inch floor |
Barn Swallow | Below overhang for shelter | 6×6 inch floor |
American Robin | On lightly used window | 6×8 inch floor |
Problem | Cause | Solution |
---|---|---|
Abandonment | Disturbance, lack of shelter | Relocate box, alter design |
Window strikes | Window reflection, exiting box | Deterrents on glass |
Overheating | Exposed location | Add shade, ventilation |