Tree Swallow House Plans

Tree Swallow House Plans:

Attract these Charming Aerialists to Your Garden Tree swallows are captivating small birds with a graceful flight and an engaging personality. Their aerial acrobatics and cheerful chatter make them a delight to observe. If you want to welcome these charismatic birds to your garden, consider building a tree swallow house. Tree swallow houses are easy to construct and provide a safe and comfortable nesting site for these beneficial birds. ### Selecting the Right Location: Choose a spot in your yard that is open and free of obstructions, with minimal human activity. Tree swallows prefer unobstructed views for easy access and a clear escape path. Placing the house near a water source, such as a pond or birdbath, is also a good idea as they often visit water bodies for drinking and bathing. ### Designing Your Tree Swallow House: While there are various designs for tree swallow houses, the general structure remains the same. A simple box with a slightly slanted roof and a small entrance hole is sufficient. The dimensions typically range from 5 inches to 6 inches in width and height, and 8 inches to 10 inches in depth. The entrance hole should be about 1 ½ inches in diameter, positioned near the top of the front panel for easy access. ### Choosing the Right Materials: Opt for durable materials that can withstand the elements, such as untreated wood or plastic. Avoid materials that can warp or crack easily. Cedar and pine are suitable options, as they are rot-resistant and provide good insulation. Plastic houses are also durable and easy to clean and maintain. ### Building the Tree Swallow House: 1. Cut the wood or plastic to the desired dimensions. 2. Assemble the four sides of the house, ensuring a snug fit to prevent gaps. 3. Attach the slanted roof, ensuring it overhangs the entrance hole to provide some protection from rain. 4. Drill a drainage hole at the bottom of the house to prevent water accumulation. 5. Paint the house with a non-toxic, water-based paint, if desired. This step is optional but can help protect the house from the elements. ### Installing the Tree Swallow House: Choose a suitable pole or tree branch for mounting the house. The pole should be at least 5 feet tall, and the house should be placed at a height between 8 feet and 12 feet above the ground. Secure the house firmly to the pole or branch using metal or plastic straps. ### Maintaining Your Tree Swallow House: Tree swallow houses require minimal maintenance. However, it's essential to clean the house thoroughly once a year, preferably after the nesting season, to remove old nesting material and prevent the accumulation of parasites or diseases. To clean the house, remove the front panel, scoop out the old nesting material, and wash the house with a mild soap solution. Rinse it thoroughly and let it dry completely before reassembling it. ### Enjoying the Presence of Tree Swallows: With a little effort and care, you will provide a welcoming home for tree swallows and enjoy their delightful presence in your garden. These active and lively birds will add charm and music to your outdoor space. Also, tree swallows are beneficial as they feed on insects, helping to control populations of pests in your garden.