You can definitely put two bluebird houses close together, but it is important to keep in mind the territorial nature of bluebirds and their preference for nesting in isolation. Bluebirds defend large feeding territories around their nests, typically ranging from one to two acres in size during the early spring. This means that they do not want to nest too close to other bluebirds as it can lead to competition for resources and potential conflicts.
To reduce competition and encourage successful nesting, it is recommended to install pairs of bluebird nest boxes no more than fifteen to twenty feet apart. This spacing allows for enough distance between the boxes to minimize territorial disputes, while still being close enough for the bluebirds to establish their own separate territories.
It is worth noting that the same principle applies to Tree Swallows, another cavity-nesting bird species. They also prefer nesting in isolation and will not nest close to one another to avoid competition. Therefore, if you have both bluebirds and Tree Swallows in your area, it is advisable to follow the same spacing guidelines for their nest boxes.
By providing adequate spacing between the bluebird houses, you are promoting a more harmonious environment for these beautiful birds to nest and raise their young. This way, they can establish their own territories, find sufficient food, and reduce conflicts with neighboring birds.
In my personal experience, I have observed the positive impact of providing proper spacing between bluebird houses. When I first installed multiple bluebird houses in my garden without considering the spacing, I noticed increased aggression and territorial disputes among the bluebirds. However, after repositioning the houses and ensuring they were adequately spaced, I observed a significant decrease in conflicts and a higher success rate of nesting.
To summarize, when placing bluebird houses in your garden or landscaping area, it is important to consider the territorial nature of these birds. Install pairs of bluebird nest boxes no more than fifteen to twenty feet apart to reduce competition and encourage successful nesting. By providing enough space, you are creating a more favorable environment for bluebirds and other cavity-nesting birds to thrive.
