Which Birds Use Birdhouses? A Guide for Your Region

Birdhouses are more than charming backyard décor, they’re essential shelters for many cavity-nesting birds. But not all birds will use a birdhouse, and the type of birds you attract depends largely on the size, design, and placement of the house. This guide breaks down which birds use birdhouses, what they need, and tips for attracting them.

What Types of Birds Use Birdhouses?

Only cavity-nesting birds will use birdhouses. These birds naturally nest in tree holes, crevices, or other sheltered cavities. Common species include:

Small Birds

• Chickadees: Prefer houses with a 1 1/8-inch entrance and a 4×4-inch floor.
• Wrens: Similar to chickadees but slightly more adaptable.
• Titmice: Also small, energetic, and territorial about nesting spaces.

Medium Birds

• Bluebirds: Need a 1 1/2-inch entrance and slightly larger floor space.
• Tree Swallows: Similar preferences to bluebirds; like open areas near water.
• Nuthatches: Use 1 1/4-inch holes and slightly deeper houses.

Large Birds

• Woodpeckers: Downy and smaller species may use larger boxes (1 1/2–2 inches).
• Owls: Eastern Screech Owls use much bigger boxes, often placed higher off the ground.

Note: Birds like robins, cardinals, and hummingbirds generally do not use birdhouses. Robins build cup-shaped nests on branches, cardinals in dense shrubs, and hummingbirds make tiny nests attached to twigs.

Birdhouse Design by Species

• Entrance Hole Size: Most critical factor. Chickadees need 1 1/8-inch, bluebirds 1 1/2-inch.
• Floor Space: Small birds thrive in 4×4 or 5×5-inch floors; larger birds need proportionally bigger spaces.
• Material: Untreated cedar, pine, or redwood. Avoid metal and plastic.
• Ventilation & Drainage: Small holes at the top and floor prevent overheating and water accumulation.
• Perches: Avoid them. Perches make it easier for predators to raid nests.

Placement Tips

• Height: 5–10 feet above the ground for small birds; 10–20 feet for larger species like owls.
• Direction: East or southeast-facing entrances protect birds from harsh afternoon sun and wind.
• Environment: Near shrubs or trees for cover, but not so dense that predators can access easily.
• Spacing: Many species are territorial, avoid clustering houses too closely.

Seasonal Considerations

• Spring & Summer: Nesting season; make sure houses are clean and ready.
• Fall & Winter: Some species, like chickadees and bluebirds, may use houses for roosting. Insulate naturally and leave houses up year-round.

How to Attract Birds to Your Birdhouse

1. Right Birdhouse Size: Match species you want to attract.
2. Clean & Safe Environment: Clean annually after nesting season; avoid pesticides nearby.
3. Food & Water Sources: Feeders, water baths, and high-energy food attract birds.
4. Patience: Birds may take a season or two to discover a new house.

Learn more about the right dimensions for each species in our Birdhouse Dimensions Chart by Species.

Final Thoughts

Providing a birdhouse is one of the easiest ways to support local wildlife while enjoying birdwatching up close. By matching the house to the species, placing it thoughtfully, and maintaining it properly, you’ll create a safe haven for birds year-round.