When it comes to providing nesting boxes for tree swallows, it’s important to ensure the dimensions are suitable for their needs. Tree swallows prefer nestboxes that are around 12 inches high, 6.5 inches wide, and 7 inches deep. These dimensions provide enough space for the birds to build their nest and raise their young comfortably.
To mount the nestbox, it is recommended to place it about 5 to 6 feet high on a metal pole. This height helps protect the nesting birds from predators such as cats or raccoons, which may try to climb up the pole. By mounting the box on a metal pole, you also reduce the risk of damage from squirrels or other animals that may chew through wooden poles.
When designing the nestbox, it’s crucial to consider the size of the entrance hole. For tree swallows, a 1.5-inch diameter entrance hole is suitable. This size allows the birds to easily enter and exit the nestbox while keeping out larger birds or predators that may try to invade the nest.
It’s important to note that tree swallows do not require perches at the entrance holes. In fact, perches can actually aid predators in reaching the nest. So, it’s best to avoid adding perches to the nestbox design.
In terms of the internal dimensions, the floor of the nestbox should be at least 5 inches by 5 inches. This provides enough space for the birds to build their nest and accommodate their eggs and young. Additionally, a depth of 7 inches allows for sufficient nesting material and protects the young birds from harsh weather conditions.
It’s worth mentioning that while these dimensions are generally suitable for tree swallows, individual birds may have slightly different preferences. Some may prefer slightly larger or smaller nestboxes, so it’s always a good idea to observe the behavior of the birds in your area and adjust accordingly.
In my personal experience, I have found that providing nestboxes with the recommended dimensions has been successful in attracting tree swallows to my backyard. Watching these beautiful birds build their nests, raise their young, and eventually fledge is a truly rewarding experience.
To summarize, a suitable nestbox size for tree swallows is around 12 inches high, 6.5 inches wide, and 7 inches deep. Mounting the box on a metal pole about 5 to 6 feet high helps protect the birds from predators. The entrance hole should be 1.5 inches in diameter, and perches should be avoided. The floor of the nestbox should be at least 5 inches by 5 inches to accommodate the birds and their young. By providing these suitable nesting conditions, you can attract and support tree swallows in your area.