This is bird note.

Who wouldn't want blue birds nesting close by?

Flashes of azure as they fly,

their mellow burbled songs. They're the birds our culture links with happiness.

And the best way to bring bluebirds close to home is with nest boxes. The right kind of box is critical. An untreated wood box with a

one and a half inch hole situated 5 feet above the ground.

Bluebirds are early migrants, so have your box in place before they arrive.

Keep in mind, it's the presence of good nesting spots that attracts them.

Even with a box in place, it could take weeks for Bluebirds to check it out.

Males claim and defend boxes, then lead females to inspect their choice.

Bluebirds catch insects on the wing and also enjoy berries. Entice them by planting shrubs that bear small fruits like

elderberry and dogwood. Plan ahead and bring the birds of happiness closer to home. You can find links to great resources on Bluebirds

and how to build the right kind of nest box at our website, birdnote.org.

I'm Mary McCann.