[Bluebird-babble] Need info on BB nest box guards...

[Kyle]

Questions, questions.
?> Is nest box predator guard just a piece of 1X with 1 9/16 " hole?

I am building Bluebird nest boxes to give away to our owners association in the Fairplay area and have a question about the predator guard.  I just cut a small piece of 1X  (3/4 " thick) with the same 1 9/16 " hole as box, and screwed it on the front..... is this the proper way to do it?  I have been watching the birds and they seem reluctant to enter..... or they can't enter.... am I doing it right?  Will this keep tree swallows out? or can they use it also?

Also.... I am putting stain on the box's exterior for protection from the harsh climate... will this affect the BB's adoption of the boxes?  they will probably weather all winter before the BBs return next spring.

Kyle Sandersen
Denver..... with bluebird boxes in Park County

BTW we have tons of BBs up near Fairplay.
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