Robins are a common and beloved backyard bird found throughout much of North America. As spring arrives, these classic harbingers of the season can be seen busily building nests and raising young. Many people enjoy attracting robins to their yards by providing nesting sites like birdhouses. But what type of birdhouse do robins prefer?
What is a robin?
The American Robin (Turdus migratorius) is a species of migratory thrush found throughout much of North America. Robins have a familiar reddish-orange breast and sing a complex and melodious warbling song. They are a larger songbird, reaching lengths of 8-11 inches with wingspans of 12-16 inches.
Robins exhibits a natural wariness of humans but will readily nest in close proximity to human habitation. They often reuse the same nesting sites year after year. The American Robin is widely considered one of the first signs of spring in many parts of North America as flocks arrive and males stake out breeding territories.
Where do robins nest?
Robins are open-cup nesters, meaning their nests have no roof or enclosure. Nests are made of grasses, twigs, mud, and other natural materials. They are most often built on horizontal branches or in the forks of trees. However, robins are adaptable nesters and will also build nests on ledges of buildings, gutters, eaves, or other manmade structures.
Ideal nesting spots provide a stable platform concealed from above with an unobstructed view of potential threats. Accessibility is also key as the robin prefers to have clear flight paths to and from the nest.
What do robins look for in a nesting site?
When choosing nesting sites, robins evaluate several key factors:
Safety
Robins prefer nesting spots that provide protection from predators and severe weather while allowing them to easily monitor any threats. An enclosed birdhouse appeals to their natural wariness.
Security
The nest must be stable and secure. Sturdy mounting and construction prevents accidents or displacement.
Shelter
Protection from the elements helps ensure the health of eggs and nestlings. The house should shield inhabitants from rain, wind, intense sun, etc.
Comfort
The interior needs ample room for the nest and a family of up to 5 robins. But it shouldn’t be so large as to compromise insulation and shelter.
Accessibility
Easy access is crucial. The entry hole should allow straight entry and the house should have clear flight paths without obstacles.
Visibility
Robins want to see any potential predators approaching. The house should be sited for maximum visibility from above and the side.
Height
Most robins prefer to nest 8 to 15 feet above ground. This protects from many predators while still allowing easy access.
What are the best birdhouse designs for robins?
Taking robin preferences into account, here are some of the best birdhouse designs and features to attract nesting robins:
Enclosed style house
Robins strongly favor an enclosed nesting box or house that provides safety, shelter, and the comfort of an enclosed space. Open platforms are rarely used.
Dimensions
The interior floor space should be at least 6 x 8 inches (15 x 20 cm). Depth should be 8-10 inches (20-25 cm) from floor to ceiling.
Entry hole
The entry hole should be oval or rectangular in shape and at least 3 inches (7.5 cm) high by 4 inches (10 cm) wide. This allows easy passage.
Height off ground
Mount houses between 8 to 15 feet (2.5-4.5 m) high to deter most predators.
Materials
Use naturally insulating and protective materials like wood, ceramic, or recycled plastic. Avoid metal houses.
Roof overhang/awning
A roof with at least a 2-3 inch overhang helps keep the entry hole dry during rain showers.
Ventilation and drainage
Ventilation holes or slats under the roof provide air circulation. Drainage holes prevent moisture build up.
Predator guard
A predator guard or baffle mounted below the entry hole prevents access to eggs and nestlings.
Location
Place nest boxes on the east sides of buildings, trees, or posts with a clear flight path. Avoid facing south to prevent overheating.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Floor dimensions | At least 6 x 8 inches (15 x 20 cm) |
| Height | 8-10 inches (20-25 cm) |
| Entry hole shape | Oval or rectangular |
| Entry hole size | At least 3 inches high x 4 inches wide (7.5 x 10 cm) |
| Height from ground | 8-15 feet (2.5-4.5 m) |
| Materials | Wood, ceramic, recycled plastic |
| Roof overhang | 2-3 inches |
| Ventilation | Holes or slats under roof |
| Drainage | Holes in floor |
| Predator guard | Required |
Where to place robin birdhouses
Proper placement is key to attracting robins. Here are some tips:
– Face houses toward areas of frequent robin activity like foraging spaces.
– Ensure a clear flight path to the entry hole free of obstructing branches or vegetation.
– Mount on the east sides of trees, buildings, or posts to avoid intense afternoon sun.
– Place houses in open areas away from dense shrubbery where predators may hide.
– Separate boxes 10-15 feet horizontally to reduce competition. But keep within robin territories.
– Mount at heights between 8-15 feet. This deters most climbing predators.
– Avoid areas of heavy human disturbance.
When to provide roosting boxes
Robins can be encouraged to use nesting sites by installing them well before the start of breeding season. Here are some guidelines on timing:
– Late winter is ideal in most regions. Put up houses by late February or early March at the latest.
– This gives robins time to find and claim the nest site before competitors.
– In cold climates, set up boxes after the last hard frost when robins return.
– Make any repairs needed to clean out old nests and prevent parasites.
– Leave houses up into winter. Robins may use them as winter roosts.
Maintenance tips
Regular maintenance will ensure safe and sanitary conditions for nesting robins:
– Monitor boxes weekly during spring and summer.
– Remove old nests and debris after young fledge by early July.
– Clean with a diluted bleach solution to prevent parasites. Allow boxes to air out before relining floors.
– Make any repairs needed to holes, hinges, etc. before next season.
– Apply fresh water sealant if needed to prevent weathering.
– Prune any new branches or vegetation obstructing entry holes or flight paths.
Conclusion
By understanding the nesting requirements of robins and providing suitable birdhouses, you can have better success attracting this classic songbird. Focus on safety, security, shelter, accessibility, and proper placement and dimensions when selecting or building robin nest boxes. Maintain the houses properly and make sure to time setup before breeding season starts. With the right birdhouse in the right location, you’ll be rewarded with a yard filled with the sight and sounds of robins each spring.
