When putting up a bluebird house, one of the most important considerations is which direction the entrance hole should face. The ideal direction to face a bluebird house entrance varies depending on location, but generally faces an open area away from prevailing winds and intense sun.
Face the Entrance Away from Prevailing Winds
Bluebirds are small birds that can be buffeted by strong winds. Facing the bluebird house entrance into the prevailing winds makes it more difficult for bluebirds to enter and leave the box. Winds can also blow rain into the box, making the interior cold and wet.
To determine the prevailing wind direction, observe which way tree branches are bent. Also look for signs like wind burnt vertical surfaces on trees. The leeward side of structures is also a clue to the prevailing wind direction.
Point the entrance in the opposite direction to avoid wind problems. Turning the house slightly away from due south can help too. Aim for placing the hole on the side that faces south-southeast to south-southwest.
Examples of Positioning Relative to Prevailing Winds
Here are some examples of bluebird house positioning based on prevailing wind patterns:
- If prevailing winds are from the north, face the entrance south
- If prevailing winds are from the west, face the entrance east
- If prevailing winds are from the southwest, face the entrance north-northeast
Avoid Facing the Entrance into the Hot Summer Sun
Another factor in bluebird house entrance orientation is sun exposure. You want to avoid facing the opening directly into the hot summer sun.
The sun tracks from east to west over the course of a day. It also shifts north and south over the seasons. The height of the summer sun varies by latitude:
Latitude | Height of Summer Sun |
---|---|
60° north (Alaska) | 47° above horizon |
40° north (Oregon, New York) | 72° above horizon |
35° north (Tennessee) | 77° above horizon |
30° north (Florida, Texas) | 81° above horizon |
To avoid facing the entrance directly at the summer sun, aim the opening north, northeast or northwest. The exact optimal direction depends on your location.
Guidelines for Sun Orientation by Region
Here are sun orientation guidelines for various regions:
- In the Southern latitudes, face the entrance north
- In the mid-Northern latitudes, face the entrance north-northeast
- In the far Northern Latitudes, face the entrance east-northeast
Place the House with a Clear Flight Path
Bluebirds like having an open and clear flight path to their house. Avoid facing the entrance towards trees, buildings and other obstructions.
Give bluebirds a 10-15 foot clear area in front of the house so they can easily approach and land on the perch. Make sure foliage does not encroach on this flight path as the season progresses.
Also consider the surroundings that will be in the background when photographs are taken of the nest. Face the front away from undesirable backgrounds like walls and fences. A natural background like meadows or distant trees make the best backdrop.
Height and Tilting Considerations
Mounting the bluebird box at the proper height and with a very slight forward tilt can also help with entrance orientation.
Place the house 4-6 feet high off the ground. This makes it harder for predators to access.
Tilting the house slightly down towards the front helps prevent rain from entering the nest box. Just a slight 5-10 degree tilt is ideal.
With the higher mounting height and tilt, the entrance hole can face a bit more skyward than if the house was lower and untilted. An entrance oriented north-northwest often works well.
Monitor and Adjust if Needed
Keep an eye out on the first year with a new bluebird house to see how the entrance orientation works out. If you notice issues like the entrance being too hot or windy, consider re-orienting the opening for the following nesting season.
Pay attention to the inside of the box as well. If rain is getting inside, adjust the tilt or overhang above the hole to provide more protection.
With good placement that minimizes exposure to rain, wind, sun, and provides an open flight path, bluebirds will have ideal housing for raising their young.
Conclusion
When orienting the entrance of a bluebird house, consider the prevailing winds, sunlight patterns, nearby obstacles, height and tilt. Face the opening away from winds, avoid pointing it at midday sun, give bluebirds an clear flight path, and angle the house slightly downwards. Adjust as needed based on observed conditions during the first years nesting. With a properly oriented entrance, bluebirds will have an easier time accepting and using the nest box.