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Discouraging Wrens from Bluebird Nestboxes

Spring 2007 Newsletter

Here's a wren baffle to try:

Our friends in East Central IL bluebird county have tried this, and Loren Hughes reports that it work, if you are plagued by wrens taking over (and who hasn't been?).

Wait until a few bluebird, chickadee, or other desirable bird eggs have been laid. The female will be bonded to that box. Then put a pre-drilled "Shield" on the front of the box. It is a simple piece of wood attached to the front of the roof overhang, and extends below the entrance hole. It works best of roofs that extend 2-1/2" beyond the box itself. Bluebirds have no problem entering from the side.

The theory is that the shield makes the hole 'Invisible" to the wren and is probably a lot harder for them to bring twigs.

•  Monitor after installation to make sure the desired nester is able to enter.

A temporary shield can be used by attaching a piece of cardboard with the ever useful duct tape.

For further details on this shield and other wren controls, go the Discouraging House Wrens page at sialis.org.

—Grace Storch