Wren House Mounting and Care
Selecting a Location
Wrens and chickadees both prefer houses that are located in a sheltered area - under the shade and protection of tree branches is ideal. When possible, hang the house so that the entry hole faces away from incoming weather anywhere from 5-10 feet off the ground. Higher or lower placement can also work as long as there is good cover nearby.
Hanging Your Wren House
A hanging style house is preferred so that it can be placed outward on a branch to help prevent predators reaching the nest. You can utilize the hanging cable that comes attached to your house to hang it as wrens will use a house that freely swings. A box house should be mounted on a pole with space in front of the opening, or can also be mounted under an eave to offer additional protection from the elements and predators.
For best success, we recommend placing your nest boxes by February in the south. In northern regions, place your nest boxes by mid to late March for best results. Don’t be discouraged if birds don’t begin nesting in them immediately. Sometimes it takes time for the birds to discover and start using a house.
House Inhabitants
All Nature's Way wren houses have a 1 1/8" opening to accommodate both house wrens and chickadees while keeping unwanted larger birds out.
A male wren will build a nest out of sticks and perch on the branches above the house to attract a female. These small birds have a very beautiful and distinct song and you will often hear their song before you are able to spot them flitting in the branches near the house.
A pair of chickadees will work together to build their nest with moss, pet hair, or other types of fur-like material. These small birds are very social and are easily and quickly drawn to bird feeders, oftentimes even when people are nearby.
Maintaining a Clean Birdhouse
Birdhouses and nesting boxes should be cleaned at least once each year. All Nature's Way birdhouses feature clean-out doors, making it easy to remove the old nest and any debris that have collected. At minimum, cleaning should be done prior to nesting season in the spring. Some recommend cleaning the nesting boxes after each brood has fledged. This type of maintenance will reduce bird parasite problems and help keep the nest box useful longer.
If you need more detailed cleaning tips, visit our article about the best way to clean out your birdhouse!
Hi Larry. Thank you for writing in. We have read a general rule is they should be spaced 100’-200’ apart. However, different species of wrens exhibit a variety of territorial behaviors. Our advice is to research the wrens in your area and/or observe them to determine their tolerance level for neighbors as you might be able to place closer. Happy birding!
How far apart should Wren houses be spaced apart?
Hi Matt. Thank you for writing in. The roof design wouldn’t prevent a bird from using the house so there is no need to change anything on the house. All the best.
I’ve had my wren house up for some time now. I’ve had a few show interest but no real success. I just watched a Carolina wren hop across the top and slip on the metal roof. Would this keep them from using the box? And can I modify it somehow if it is?
Hi Patricia, Thank you for reaching out! We are not sure what the wren’s response will be but be sure to keep us posted! Happy birding!