You may obtain a decorative bird house online or from most garden shops. Many online stores specialize in selling only bird houses; their selection is amazing.

Before making a purchase, there are several important features to consider. It is best if the bird house is constructed from a natural material such as wood. It should be free of pests and should not be chemically treated. Be certain to use a water-based paint if you wish to paint it. All of these factors are important, but decorative bird houses sometimes overlook them as they strive for beautiful design and architecture.

If your goal is to have a functional bird house then most of these issues will be taken care of. Now you have to consider where to place the bird house.

Putting the bird house where you want it rather than where the bird wants it is a common error. If you put the house to close to your porch, you run the risk of not having birds come. Whether you want a bird house for birds nesting or as a decor enhancement, is a decision you have to make.

To attract birds, you must choose the placement carefully. The best placement for a birdhouse will vary depending on the species of bird you are trying to attract. Certain birds prefer open space such as Bluebirds and Swallows, but others prefer closed in spaces and trees like Woodpeckers and Owls. The ever aquatic duck and other water loving birds would do well with a bird house facing open water. Our fine feathered friends, the Purple Martins, would also appreciate a bird house facing open water. Installing the birdhouse on the edge of a forested area is best for attracting Titmice, Nuthatches, Kestrels, Flycatchers and Chickadees. Purchase a bird house for Finches if you'd like finches to live in your garden, for example.

Not only must you be aware of what type of bird house will appeal to which birds, but you need to be aware that they can be territorial, so place the bird houses carefully. There are some birds that are territorial and will defend their home. Sometimes bird houses that are in close proximity to each other will not attract any birds. Before you put out the bird houses, check what type of territory the bird prefers.

You should also place some bird feeders next to the decorative bird houses. The food will attract them to your bird houses, and they will likely stay to raise their families.