Setting Up Your Bluebird Box

Place the box in open habitat such as a yard or field edge. Position the box at least 4 to 6 feet away from tree lines, fences, or overhanging branches so predators cannot reach the box from above.

Face the entrance toward open space rather than dense trees or shrubs. When possible, face the entrance east. Choose another direction if east placement exposes the box to hazards or unsafe conditions.

Step 1
Remove the clamp from the rebar.

Loosen and remove the metal clamp attached to the rebar and set aside. 

Leave the metal clamp attached to the outside of the pole. You will use this clamp later to support the predator guard.

Step 2
Insert the rebar into the ground.

Place the rebar upright and begin driving it into the ground. 

Check with a small level as you install it to keep it vertical. Stop when about half of the rod sits below ground and the rest remains above the soil. 

The rebar needs to be straight so that the pole will also be straight. 

Step 3
Place the pole over the rebar.

Slide the hollow pole down over the exposed rebar. The rebar sits inside the pole and provides stability.

Step 4
Slide the predator baffle onto the pole.

Before attaching the nest box, slide the predator baffle over the pole from the top.

Step 5
Attach the nest box.

Mount the nest box to the pole using the provided screws and bracket. Ensure the pole stands straight and confirm the box door opens easily for monitoring.

After your bluebird box is installed, you can start checking it each week during the nesting season- click here for more on how to check your bluebird box.