Every bird specie has other species that are harmful for it. The natural predators are an inevitable problem and you will have to deal with it. Of course this doesn't mean to kill the predators but to place secure bird houses and take measures for keeping predators out.
The most common predators are other birds, squirrels, snakes, raccoons, cats, yellow jackets, wasps, ants and other insects. They are very harmful especially for the young birds that are growing in the bird house. There are several things to consider if you want to have a secure bird house.
As you probably know perches can help some predators to get into the bird house and damage the eggs or harm the youngsters. Although they add beauty to any bird house, the birds do not actually need them. Remember that the natural nests or wood holes do not have perches, so get a bird house without a perch. If you already have a bird house with a perch you can remove it.
The entrance hole size is also important. It should be big enough only for the nesting bird. If it is too big then predators can get in and kill the baby birds. Moreover you can nail and additional piece of wood that has the same size entrance hole. This will make it harder for any predators to get in. For additional security you can place metal baffles on the pole below the bird house. They will keep away some animals.
Another trick you can use to keep the predators away is to mount the bird houses on metal or plastic poles. It will be much harder for a non flying predator to climb it.
If there are many crows and ravens in your area you will have to think how to keep them away of your nests. An easy way is to provide them with the food they love. Place a feeder in your area and regularly fill it with eggs or meat. This is the food ravens love and it is likely that they will stay away from your bird houses.
Ants and other insects can be very harmful for your birds. You should check your bird houses regularly to see if ant nests have developed under them or near the houses. If you stop an ant nest treat it with products that are not harmful for the birds. Read the labels carefully.
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