Bluebird, Bat, and Butterfly Houses

An Eagle Scout project was started in 2010 to learn about bluebird habitat. Construction of bluebird trails on Tolland Conservation Properties started with the building of 5 houses that were placed on the Campbell Peaceful Valley Conservation area. More houses were built and sold at the Tolland Farmer’s Market by the Boy Scouts. With the proceeds from the sales of those houses and wood donated by the Connecticut DEEP, bluebird houses were constructed for placement on more conservation properties. 8 houses were placed on the Campbell Peaceful Valley Conservation Area, 19 on the Sage Meadow Conservation Area, and 5 on the the King Riverside Conservation Area during the Spring of 2011. The bluebird trails benefit not only the wildlife in the area, but also add to the enjoyment of hikers. As you hike, please notice the houses and their inhabitants from a distance. Do not disturb the birds and their homes. Join the Conservation Commission and the Boy Scouts in support of this excellent project which seeks an increase in the bluebird population in our town.

Bluebirds prefer fields or meadow to find insects to feed on, but also like the protection that brush and trees provide along the edge. Ideally there would be a nearby water supply for the birds, such as a pond or brook. The house needs to be 4-5’ off the ground and placed so that it would be facing in a direction so minimal wind and sun would be at its entrance. Houses needed to be approximately 100 feet apart due to the territorial nature of bluebirds.

Attracting Bluebirds and Setting Up Bluebird Houses
Attracting Bats and Setting Up Bat Houses
Attracting Butterflies and Setting Up Butterfly Houses