Gourd birdhouses represent a long-standing tradition of providing natural shelter for avian species. Historically, Native Americans used dried gourds to attract insect-eating birds like purple martins, recognizing the benefit of natural pest control. The hard-shelled Lagenaria gourd offers a durable, naturally insulated cavity that appeals to various cavity-nesting birds. Attracting species like bluebirds, wrens, or purple martins requires careful consideration of the gourd’s location and setup. A successful nesting site depends on selecting the right location and implementing proper installation techniques.
Selecting the Best Site for Bird Attraction
The choice of location within the landscape determines which species of birds are likely to accept the gourd as a home. Purple martins, for instance, demand a highly open area with clear sightlines and unobstructed flight paths, preferring that no tree taller than the house be within 40 to 60 feet. Other cavity nesters, like chickadees or wrens, may prefer a more sheltered spot in a wooded or brushy area.
It is generally recommended to place the birdhouse away from areas with heavy foot traffic, though purple martins are an exception, often preferring to be within 30 to 60 feet of human dwellings. This behavior is thought to stem from the perception that human activity offers a measure of safety protection from predators. Conversely, placing the gourd too close to bird feeders or baths is discouraged, as the high activity levels can disrupt nesting pairs and increase the risk of attracting predators.
Controlling temperature inside the gourd is accomplished partly through orientation and shade. To prevent overheating during the intense afternoon hours, the entrance hole should ideally face away from the harshest direct sun, typically toward the north or east. This orientation allows the cavity to receive the beneficial warmth of the morning sun while minimizing exposure to the intense heat of the afternoon.
Physical Installation Parameters
Mounting a gourd birdhouse on a smooth pole is generally preferred over hanging it from a tree limb, as poles offer better predator control and greater long-term stability. The specific height for installation varies significantly depending on the target species. While general birdhouses can be mounted at least five feet off the ground, purple martin gourds must be placed much higher, typically ranging between 10 and 15 feet.
The mounting system should ensure the gourd is securely fastened to the pole or rack. Using durable materials like coated wire or cables is recommended to prevent weather-related wear and ensure the house remains safely in place over time. For purple martins, many landlords utilize specialized gourd racks on winch-operated poles, allowing the gourds to be raised and lowered for easy annual maintenance and monitoring.
Stability is important, as excessive swaying in high winds can potentially damage eggs or deter nesting birds. While some gentle movement is unavoidable, methods exist to minimize violent side-to-side motion. One technique involves passing a stabilizing rod or wire through the gourd and the support arm. This effectively pins the gourd to the rack while still allowing for slight, gentle movement.
Protecting the Gourd and Occupants
Safeguarding the nesting occupants from climbing predators is a primary concern once the gourd is hung. Animals such as raccoons, squirrels, and snakes can easily ascend a pole or post to reach the nest. The most effective defense against these threats is the installation of a physical barrier, such as a stovepipe or cone baffle, placed around the mounting pole well below the gourd. These baffles should be positioned at a height and distance that prevents predators from bypassing the barrier by jumping from the ground or nearby structures, ideally placed eight feet away from any potential jumping-off point.
Weather mitigation is achieved through the structural preparation of the gourd. The entrance hole’s orientation should face away from prevailing winds, which often carry rain and snow. In the United States, this often means facing the opening east or slightly northeast to avoid common storm paths.
To prevent moisture accumulation and the growth of mold or bacteria, the gourd must have adequate drainage. Several small drainage holes, typically five or more, should be drilled into the very bottom of the base. This allows any internal water from rain or condensation to escape. This step is important for maintaining a dry, healthy environment for the developing young.