Consider a Gourd Birdhouse this Spring...
The birds are all atwitter in Circleville, NY. After almost 25 springtime birdhouse hangings, I think about all the generations of wrens and chickadees born in my gourd birdhouses. For years, my son was my official tree-climbing birdhouse hanger. He'd shimmy up the trees like a squirrel and would find the absolute best spots for hanging. These days, I'm stuck trying to reach those high branches with a rickety old ladder, verrry slooowly… I’m pretty sure the squirrels are watching with LOL. Through the years gourd birdhouse research, crafting, and selling I’ve compiled some useful information. Here are some highlights.
One of the biggest questions I get is, 'How long will my gourd birdhouse last?' And the honest answer is, it depends! Just like any outdoor structure, gourd birdhouses are at the mercy of Mother Nature.
Factors That Influence Gourd Longevity:
Weather: Harsh winters, heavy rains, and strong winds can all take a toll on your gourd birdhouse.
Sun Exposure: Intense sunlight can cause the gourd's shell to weaken and crack over time.
Hanging High (and Hopefully Safely):
Find a sturdy branch and hang them high. 5 to 10 feet: This is a good general range for most cavity-nesting birds that will use gourd birdhouses. This height provides some protection from ground predators while still being accessible to the birds.
Maintenance Matters:
I'm not the most diligent birdhouse cleaner and the Wrens don’t seem to mind. However, I do check my birdhouses every year to make sure they are strong enough to withstand another year of nesting. I make sure the holes in the top for ventilation and hanging haven’t weakened the gourd. I also apply pressure to the sides of the house and make sure the drainage holes don’t have any twigs or debris blocking drainage.
Why do birds love gourd birdhouses?
-The natural shape of the gourd provides more space for bird nests, and it’s round, the same shape as a nest! A perfect fit!
-A gourd has natural climate control and studies have found that gourds provide heat and coolness when needed. Gourd birdhouses keep bird babies cool in summer and cozy when its chilly.
- Studies have also found that gourd birdhouses mean more baby birds. Birds nesting in gourds seem to produce more chicks and increase local bird populations.
-Predator Defense -No porches means no easy access for predators. It's like a tiny, swinging fortress.
-I’ve personally observed that baby birds raised in gourd birdhouses are determined to find gourd birdhouses when it comes time to build their own nests. These days, while letting varnish dry on my birdhouses, it is not uncommon to have birds begin a nesting while the varnish is drying (I now stuff the hole to prevent this!)
A few other facts when considering a gourd birdhouse:
Gourds are a natural and biodegradable material, promoting sustainable practices.
Providing suitable nesting sites contributes to the conservation of cavity-nesting bird populations.
Birds play a crucial role in controlling insect populations, contributing to a healthy ecosystem.
With springtime quickly approaching your backyard birds will be begin their search for the perfect home. Why not try a gourd birdhouse this year? These handcrafted homes not only provide essential shelter but also add a touch of rustic beauty to your yard. By choosing a gourd birdhouse, you're not just offering a dwelling; you're contributing to the well-being of the local bird population, choosing a more ecologically sound dwelling for your birds, and you get to experience the fun of watching the next generation of birds raise their babies!