A Finch can nest either in birdhouses or platforms aside from their more natural choice which are the trees. It is one of the more favored backyard birds except by some Californian fruit growers. From an originally broad range of habitats consisting of forest edges, smaller wood stands and deserts, Finch birdhouses are now commonly found in towns and cities.
The ideal Finch birdhouse should have a 6 “x 6” floor, 6” inside ceiling and a 1 ½” diameter entrance hole located 4 ½ above the floor and ventilation opening. Finch birdhouses should be assembled with corrosion-resistant screws fit to pre-drilled countersunk pilot holes. A hinged-roof is recommended which should be secured with shutter hooks for easy access.
A 2” diameter entrance hole will attract a mob of House Sparrows which is very threatening to the Finch. The Finch birdhouse should be predator and competitor-proof. This means that the construction and location of the Finch birdhouse is such that protection is given to the Finch while using it. It is best to mount the Finch birdhouse on a post in the middle of a yard just suitably out of reach.
When building Finch birdhouses, one should choose the right materials. A naturally decay-resistant wood such as cedar, redwood or a good grade of exterior plywood is ideal. Wood should be at least ¾” thick as anything less will allow heat to build-up which is detrimental to young finches. Natural looking Finch birdhouses are more attractive to the birds thus the use of paint is best avoided. If it is absolutely necessary, then a non-toxic paint or stain confined to exterior while leaving the interior without paint is acceptable. Dark colored paints are not recommended as they absorb heat.
A good Finch birdhouse has the proper drainage and ventilation. Proper drainage can be provided through an ample overhang on the roof and ¼” drain holes bored in each corner of the floor. Suitable ventilation is possible by drilling ½” vent holes at the top of each side or with ventilation gap between the roof and sides.
Predator guards are a necessary feature of a Finch birdhouse. That can be as simple as an additional piece of wood at the entry hole to add more depth to the face of the box. This would make it more difficult fro predators to reach into the Finch birdhouses. The entry hole can also be drilled at an angle that will deflect a predator’s reach up and away from the nest.
There are some general guidelines as to the best location of Finch birdhouses. A Finch birdhouse that is mounted on metal poles is less vulnerable to predators than a house nailed to the trunks or hang from tree limbs. Avoid putting the Finch birdhouse near bird feeders. The entrance holes of the Finch birdhouse should be placed in a direction where overheating would not happen especially during very hot summers.
Building Finch birdhouses can be a wonderful time to spend with the family. It can be a fun way for children to learn about nature more particularly about the Finch. A Finch birdhouse that is not only well constructed but made with the Finch in mind will provide much joy both for the birds and the watcher.