Not all species of birds accept to settle in an artificial nesting box. Some species adopt this home because it is close to the conditions sought after in nature.
Thus, there are two categories of birds that are willing to nest in artificial shelters. The first of these categories includes birds that usually nest in the natural cavity of a tree. These birds will be able to replace their natural shelter with a house. Birds in the second category choose a platform or tree fork that allows them to sit their nest safely. They can then opt for a shelf with or without a roof.
In the first category, the Tree Swallows or Purple Martins are undoubtedly the most popular. They are often the first birds we try to attract to our immediate environment. Eager to see them settle in our environment, some do-it-yourselfers will not hesitate to launch into the laborious construction of luxury condominiums, a set of houses with 20 to 60 compartments. Do these multiple dwellings correspond exactly to the species sought? That is the question.
The first steps in the field are sometimes very frustrating because, before embarking on this adventure, we must carefully analyze two aspects: first, the presence of the desired species in our area and second, its living habits. It is not uncommon to see the disappointment on people’s faces when, after investing a good amount of money in a multi-compartment house or building one from a DIY magazine, they learn that there are no purple martins in their area. They often see their dream turn into a nightmare because instead of the desired birds, they are invaded by a horde of undesirables, the House Sparrows or the starlings