Helpful Tips

• When possible, make boxes out of reclaimed weathered wood, as weathered boxes seem to be more readily accepted than new boxes. Exterior-grade plywood, pine, and cedar are good choices for wood.
• Install the box on a tree that is at least as wide as the box. It is helpful if there is a branch nearby for the young to climb out on, but the branch should not obstruct the entrance hole.
• Add 2–3 inches of wood chips to the box floor.
• Leave boxes open all winter for roosting.
• Install new boxes by January.
• Pairs nesting in suburban habitats are generally tolerant of humans close to their nests, but avoid checking nest boxes during the egg-laying stage.
• You can install a second nest box within a pair's territory as a backup in case the first nest fails. Second nests are almost always in an alternate site.