Barn Swallow House Plans

Barn Swallow House Plans: A Guide to Providing Homes for These Beneficial Birds

Barn swallows are beautiful and beneficial birds that can help control pests around your home and garden. They are also a joy to watch as they swoop and soar through the air. If you'd like to attract barn swallows to your property, one of the best things you can do is to provide them with a nesting site. Barn swallows typically build their nests in barns, sheds, and other open structures. However, you can also build a barn swallow house to provide them with a safe and suitable place to nest. ## Choosing a Location for Your Barn Swallow House The first step in building a barn swallow house is to choose a suitable location. Barn swallows prefer to nest in open areas with a clear flight path to their nest. They also prefer locations that are sheltered from the wind and rain. Some good places to put a barn swallow house include: * On a post or pole in your yard * On the side of a barn or shed * Under the eaves of your house * On a fence post ## Building Your Barn Swallow House There are many different designs for barn swallow houses, but most of them share some common features. Here are some things to keep in mind when building your own barn swallow house: * The house should be made of wood or another durable material. * The house should have a large opening in the front for the birds to enter and exit. * The house should have a perch below the opening for the birds to land on. * The house should be painted or stained a light color to reflect the sun's heat. ## Maintaining Your Barn Swallow House Once you've built your barn swallow house, it's important to maintain it so that it remains a safe and suitable nesting site for the birds. Here are some things you can do to maintain your barn swallow house: * Clean the house out regularly to remove any debris or nesting material that has accumulated. * Inspect the house for any damage and repair it as needed. * Repaint or stain the house every few years to keep it looking its best. ## Attracting Barn Swallows to Your House Once you've built and maintained your barn swallow house, you can start attracting barn swallows to your property. Here are a few tips: * Plant flowers and shrubs that attract insects, which are a food source for barn swallows. * Provide a source of water, such as a bird bath or a shallow pond. * Avoid using pesticides and herbicides, which can harm barn swallows and their prey. With a little effort, you can attract barn swallows to your property and enjoy the benefits of their presence. These beautiful and beneficial birds will help control pests, add beauty to your yard, and provide hours of enjoyment.