It is so much fun to feed the birds with your bird feeder, especially in the winter months when their other food is scarce. You could attract even more birds by providing them with a nice whimsical home to have shelter in. Birdhouses are made in every shape and size imaginable. They are made also to suit specific breeds of birds in some cases.

The main thing to remember about these houses is that they need to be built of materials that will not be toxic to the birds. Certain treated woods and paints may not be good for your feathered friends. Some crafters make birdhouses that look great but are not practical for the birds to use.

So make sure that all the materials on the birdhouses are non-toxic. This way the birds will stay healthy living in them. Just like humans certain chemicals in some paints are not healthy. Not all crafting paint is lead free that is used on projects.

The other thing to be aware of is the fact that the birdhouses need ventilation and drainage. This keeps the air circulating in the houses and prevents water from building up inside. This can cause mold and mildew to from which is not good for the birds.

Make sure the hole size is right for the bird you are trying to attract. If it is a small bird you want to make sure the hole is just big enough to let it inside. You don't want it much bigger than that because a predator could enter and hurt the little bird. If it is a larger bird the hole would have to be larger for them to get in. Also the right distance from the floor is important as far as the hole is concerned, and varies between bird species.

You can find birdhouses in the shape of lighthouses, regular houses. Victorian mansion, fishing shops, and of course the purple martin multi-dwellings. The whimsical houses are fine for the birds as long as their design features are safe for them.

If the houses are not designed right for the birds you want to attract, they will either sit empty or attract another species that you may not want. So do a bit of research to see which bird likes what types of house.

Not all birds like enclosed houses though. There are several species that prefer setting up house on open platforms. You can also provide these for birds too. These birds make their nests and feel quite comfortable on these platform areas but they should not be out in the open. Set them up near some trees for their protection.

You can find a whimsical home for any bird that flies out there. Just do your research to find which types of houses they like. A bird's house does not always mean something with 4 walls remember to make sure all the houses and platforms have good drainage and if needed ventilation.

Suzie O'Connor is the owner of ShabbyCottageChicFurniture which carries a large inventory of Shabby Cottage Chic Furniture for the Home and Garden. We also carry unique Wedding Favors and Decorations that will make your guess say WOW.