Attracting bluebirds to a small garden can be achieved through thoughtful planning and the right resources. Here are some effective strategies:
Install a Nest Box: Place a bluebird nesting box in an open area, ideally 5-6 feet high, facing southeast. Ensure it has predator guards and is mounted on a pole rather than a tree to protect against predators.
Provide Food: Bluebirds primarily eat insects, so offering live mealworms is highly effective. You can also provide dried mealworms and suet in feeders.
Add Water Features: A shallow birdbath is essential, especially one with moving water, such as a dripper or small fountain. This will attract bluebirds for drinking and bathing.
Create Open Spaces: Keep parts of your garden open with short grass to allow bluebirds to spot insects easily. Avoid dense underbrush and maintain a tidy lawn to provide suitable foraging grounds.
Plant Native Shrubs: Incorporate native plants that produce berries, which bluebirds rely on during colder months. Good options include elderberry, flowering dogwood, and staghorn sumac.
By combining these elements, you can create a welcoming environment for bluebirds in your small garden.