Chickadees are small, active birds recognized for their distinctive “chick-a-dee-dee-dee” call and curious demeanor. These common backyard birds are found across North America, inhabiting deciduous and mixed forests, as well as suburban areas with trees and shrubs. Understanding their habits can help create an inviting environment for them in your outdoor space.
Chickadee Nesting Preferences
Chickadees are cavity nesters, meaning they naturally seek out enclosed spaces for their nests, such as abandoned woodpecker holes or natural cavities in decaying wood. They often prefer to excavate or enlarge their own nest cavities, typically in soft, rotten wood between 4 and 15 feet off the ground. This natural preference makes them receptive to using human-made birdhouses, which mimic these secure, enclosed environments.
When selecting a birdhouse, specific dimensions are important. The entrance hole should ideally be 1 1/8 inches in diameter, which is small enough to deter larger, more aggressive birds while allowing chickadees easy access. The interior floor dimensions should be approximately 4 by 4 inches, and the house height about 8 inches. These compact sizes replicate the snug cavities chickadees prefer in nature.
The material of the birdhouse also plays a role in attracting chickadees. Untreated wood, such as cedar, is generally recommended because it provides good insulation and is breathable, preventing moisture buildup. The inside of the birdhouse must remain unpainted, as fumes could be harmful to the birds. A chickadee birdhouse should not have a perch, as they do not require one, and perches can provide an advantage for predators.
Setting Up a Chickadee Birdhouse
Optimal placement of a chickadee birdhouse involves several considerations to ensure the birds feel secure and protected. It should be mounted on a tree trunk in a wooded area, mimicking their natural habitat. Placing the birdhouse between 4 and 15 feet above the ground is generally suitable, with about 6 feet often cited as a good height.
The orientation of the birdhouse is also important for providing shelter from harsh weather. Facing the entrance hole away from prevailing winds and direct afternoon sunlight, typically towards the north or east, can help protect the nest from rain and excessive heat. Placing a small amount of sawdust or wood chips at the bottom of the birdhouse can encourage chickadees to adopt it, as they prefer to excavate some material before nesting.
The best time to install a chickadee birdhouse is during the fall or winter. This allows the birds to discover and become familiar with the new nesting site before the breeding season begins in early spring. Regular maintenance is also necessary; birdhouses should be cleaned at least once a year, ideally after the nesting season ends in late summer or early fall, to remove old nesting material and prevent the buildup of parasites or bacteria. Cleaning can involve removing debris and scrubbing with a diluted bleach solution (one part bleach to nine parts water) or mild soap, followed by a thorough rinse and drying.
Attracting Chickadees to Your Yard
Beyond providing a suitable birdhouse, consistent food sources attract chickadees to your yard. Black oil sunflower seeds are a top choice for chickadees, along with shelled peanuts and suet, which provide essential energy, particularly during colder months. Tube feeders and suet cages are effective options for offering these foods, and placing feeders near shrubs or thickets offers chickadees a sense of security.
A reliable water source is important, as chickadees require water for both drinking and bathing. A shallow bird bath or a small fountain can be highly appealing. During winter, a heated bird bath provides access to liquid water when other sources are frozen.
Planting native trees and shrubs can further enhance your yard’s appeal by offering natural shelter, foraging opportunities, and nesting materials. Trees like oaks, maples, and birches, along with berry-producing shrubs such as serviceberry, elderberry, and holly, provide food and protective cover. Minimize insecticide use, as chickadees consume insects, especially during warmer months, which provides natural pest control.