Differences between bird nesting and roosting boxes (and which ones to use)

Birds of different sizes and colors flocking to your garden may be a common sight in spring and summer, but what about winter? Approximately 75% of birds in North America migrate over the winter, but you may still see a few non-migratory species in your area. These birds, such as the northern cardinal, are “resident birds” that, unlike other feathered friends, stay all year round. Local birds do not migrate because they can find enough food in winter. However, poor conditions like snow and ice make it harder for them to find food, so you won't necessarily see them as often as you would in the spring. One way to attract birds to your garden this winter season is to provide a roosting place for their comfort. A roosting box provides protection from predators and the elements and provides shelter for visiting birds.

Although the names are sometimes used interchangeably, nest box and roost are not the same thing. Roost boxes provide birds with a warm place to stay in the winter, and it is not uncommon for different species of birds to share the space. Nesting boxes are often designed for birds to mate and give birth to their young. A bird can stay in the nest box in winter. However, the design of the sleeping box is better for keeping warm as it has less ventilation and keeps the heat inside. Using a roosting box also allows multiple birds to seek warmth thanks to the multiple perches, whereas nesting boxes are empty and without perches.

Sleeping boxes are sold at various feed stores and you can also purchase them online, such as the Prime Retreat Horizontal Winter Box. When browsing online options, read the product description and title carefully to ensure you are not purchasing a basic birdhouse as they are not suitable for insulation.

If you have basic carpentry skills, you can build your own backyard roost using several sheets of cedar planks, some dowels, and wood screws, just like you would build an adorable DIY birdhouse. For easier access, you should drill a 1 ½ inch wide hole in the bottom of the faceplate. A larger hole of 2 inches is also fine, but anything over 2 inches increases the risk of aggressive birds such as starlings entering the box. You can usually find instructions for a DIY shelter at your local Audubon Society chapter or by watching a tutorial on YouTube.

Once you have the winter shelter, mount it on a tall, sturdy post, preferably 6 to 15 feet above the ground. Give your future residents warmth and make the interior more comfortable with insulation such as mulch chips or dried grass. To add finishing touches to bird visitors, place a well-stocked bird feeder and waterer nearby so the birds can recharge when needed, and cover the bird feeder to protect the food before a winter snowstorm hits . Clean your sleeping area regularly to remove any debris.