tree swallow

The tree swallow (Tachycineta bicolor) is a small, iridescent bird found throughout North America. They are known for their bright blue-green upperparts, white underparts, and acrobatic flight patterns. Tree swallows are cavity-nesting birds, meaning they nest in tree cavities, nest boxes, or other small enclosed spaces.

If you want to attract tree swallows to your yard, providing a suitable nest box can be helpful. The nest box should be placed in an open area, at a height of 5-15 feet above the ground, and mounted on a pole or tree. The entrance hole should be 1.5 inches in diameter, and the interior of the box should be free of any perches or nest material to allow the swallows to build their own nests. Tree swallows prefer nest boxes with a hinged door for easy cleaning.

In addition to providing a nest box, there are other things you can do to attract tree swallows to your yard. They are primarily insectivorous, so offering a variety of insects, such as mealworms or crickets, in a designated feeding area can be helpful. Planting native plants that attract insects can also attract these birds to your yard. Tree swallows are also known to visit backyard bird feeders that offer suet or mealworms.

It's important to note that tree swallows are highly territorial and can be aggressive towards other bird species. If you plan on attracting tree swallows to your yard, it's best to avoid providing multiple nest boxes in close proximity to each other. Additionally, it's important to clean out the nest box after each nesting season to prevent the buildup of parasites or diseases.

If you are unsure about how to attract tree swallows to your yard, consider consulting with local wildlife experts or organizations for guidance. They can provide valuable information about habitat requirements, bird feeding, and nest box placement.