All my boxes have a "hole guard" as we have lots of Woodpeckers. You dont need to paint it but I always file the inside of the hole a little because they can be pretty sharp, less wear and tear on Momas wings.

Leslie, I'm sorry that happened but as many others have replied, we've all made mistakes. Fortunately I had bluebirds nesting for at least two years before a chickadee showed up and claimed another box. Because of this forum, and the helpful members here, I knew that I could protect the dees FROM the bluebirds by adding a hole reducer (to keep the bluebirds out). I've talked to several people over the years (people I know personally and not from this forum) who have removed chickadee, titmouse and brown headed nuthatch nests because they wanted bluebirds. When I listened to their stories I took a deep breath and then explained how much these other species NEED our help. Bluebirds have been getting our help (YEA!) for the last 40 years and sometimes it's easy to forget or not even think about the other species who also need a safe nesting spot. I think that when we put up that first bluebird nest box we only have one thought in mind...... getting bluebirds to nest in our box! I waited FIVE YEARS to get my first bluebird couple! LOL! What I've experienced in hosting three nest boxes is that the Dees and the brown headed nuthatches are just as much fun and such nice little birds! I've never been lucky enough to host titmice but maybe one day.... Anyway, I know you are sorry and won't do it again and that really is the point. Janie

First, find out what is attracting and sustaining the House Sparrow population (food & housing). See if those can be eliminated or at least reduced. See Keys to Success using 2-holed boxes: http://home.earthlink.net/~lviolett/keys.html

I put up a bluebird house last fall, have my first couple. I did not research this thoroughly before starting so now I’m trying to correct things in retrospect. My bluebird couple had been happily nesting, until 2 days ago when I noticed a brown bird going in & out of their house. I went to investigate and found a blue egg on the ground with a hole in it. I researched, then panicked because I read about house sparrows. Long story short I moved their house & nest further away and placed an identical house on the same 4x4 post that the original one was but lower. I’ve noticed the bluebird couple are back, they are now actively building a nest in the new house!! I’ve ordered the monofilament and the sparrow chaser from Michigan bluebird society. In the meantime any suggestions to keep them safe?