The Black Capped Chickadee

Black Capped Chickadees are found both deep within forests and at forest edges. They are also found in rural and suburan areas where there are scattered trees, old fields and parks. Their breeding season spans from early April thru mid May. In the southern part of their range, the season begins in April with the northern regions beginning in May.
Typically, the houses should be placed in yards with mature hard wood trees where there is 40-60 percent sunlight. Black-capped Chickadee houses should be mounted 5 to 15 feet high and spaced one per 10 acres with the entrance hole facing away from prevailing wind. 1 inch of wood shavings can be placed in the house.
The black capped chickadee is a friendly little bird and usually one of the first to appear when a new feeder is placed outdoors. These houses should be placed one per 10 acres. In suburban areas, one may not be able to determine this type of placement. Putting out the house is still a great idea. If the chickadee frequents your yard, they will be looking for nesting sites so it certainly doesn’t hurt to try. Sometimes, as in my own experience, other birds come and take over the house you intended for a particular type of bird. I personally don’t worry about it. I welcome which ever bird wants to use the house and thoroughly enjoy watching the nest building process, the setting, the feeding and the departure of fledgelings. No matter how you slice it, birding is great fun and a fabulous learning experience.

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