Many people keep removing birds nests from their houses, which isn't legal. So I set up providing birds food and shelter. While exploring the shopping spree of wild birds baths, feeders and houses, I found so many birdhouses that I bought a fruit shaped one. Exotic birdhouses can look fairy tale but after the first day, I took it down to empty the water as it rained in the night. I plan to redesign my birdhouse so it's dry inside and got plenty of fresh air,
Some birdhouses are very good, shaped like normal houses with rooftop canopies. It shields them very well from the weather, and offers air ventilation and some drainage, comfort and shade from the sun during hot weather.
But some fancy nice looking bird houses made to look like decorations are not very good for birds to live in. These are made with wood and paint, rounded shaped and no other holes or crevices apart from the entrance. It's fine for birds only indoors, and even so it can't even be cleaned inside.
Fruit shaped bird houses carved from solid wood and painted, like these are okay for offering shelter for wild outdoor spiders, but due to a bit of rainfall, it would become hazardous. If these go wet, especially inside, for long periods, mould will develop and this is toxic for all wildlife.
If you get anything like this fruit birdhouse made of wood, drill four holes at the base to act as a drainage. Also put in 1/8 inch holes along the sides and top for airflow.
If you want to add a rooftop or canopy, or even make a birdhouse from scratch, use cedar, white pine and redwood. For soft roof materials use pinecone shingles, copper sheeting and or roofing felt. Use water-safe glue such as Titebond 3. Don't use toxic pressure-treated lumber, as this is a green tint, because it gives off horrible fumes while damp.
Make sure you get plenty of advice.
Storm Valkyrie
No comments:
Post a Comment