Whimsical Birdhouses from Around the Globe

Hanging a birdhouse is a great way to bring nature right into your backyard. "When kids start to learn about birds, they make connections about animal habitats and the environment," Anne Schmauss, author of the gorgeous new book Birdhouses of the World tells Elizabeth Street. "For not a lot of money you can have this shared experience. You see a woodpecker during breakfast and can say, 'isn't that cool' -it doesn't have to be a lesson."
Schmauss has been selling birdhouses and other supplies for over 20 years at her New Mexico shop Wild Birds Unlimited, and is a passionate conservationist. She points out that while humans have destroyed bird habitats through development, putting up birdhouses helps reverse the cycle. During the 1970s, the movement to install backyard bluebird houses (called boxes) brought that species back from near extinction. "They were decimated by the use of DDT and some farming practices," she explains, "and bluebird boxes were absolutely essential."
Some birds have two or three batches of babies in the summer, so in a short time, your family can witness an entire cycle. "It's fun to watch the parents gather the nesting materials," says Schmauss. "You'll also see the babies hopping around the yard, begging for food."
While her new book is brimming with fancifully designed birdhouses, Schmauss recommends starting with a basic, sturdy model that you know will be safe for its inhabitants. About 80 species in North America will nest in a manmade birdhouse and you can ask your supplier to recommend a structure to suit your local birds. Depending on the house, you can hang it in a tree or mount on a pole between 5 and 10 feet of the ground. Her book has specific guidelines.
Building a birdhouse is also a wonderful project to do with kids, but make sure you to do your research. The house needs to be properly insulated and have good ventilation and drainage. Some decorative elements such as perches look cute but can actually invite predators. The Cornell Lab of Ornithology offers a wealth of information on bird species, habitats, and nesting boxes.

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