It's made of naturally water repellent wool, and when it does get wet (mainly on the exterior) it will also naturally dry itself out. Made with other sustainable harvested materials including a braided natural hemp hanging cord and a bamboo perch.
The 1 1/4'' diameter opening is sized for small birds such as wrens, chickadees, titmice, finches and nuthatches. The opening can be enlarged for larger birds as desired. If birds don't choose to nest inside they can pull at the wool for material to feather their own nests (one of our customers HAS reported seeing a bluebird go inside!). Comes partially filled with recycled paper to maintain the shape in shipping that can easily be removed. If exposed to sun and hard weather, the colors and shape should last over a year in hard weather, and forever in a protected place such as a porch or even inside. Clean out by opening the bottom.
DO BIRDS REALLY GO INSIDE?
YES! Small birds such as wrens, nuthatches and chickadees use them as a safe place to nest and rest. Birds such as titmice may also pull parts of the body to take the wool to add to their nests.
HOW LONG WILL IT LAST OUTSIDE?
If hung in a protected outdoor area, such as under a porch roof, our birdhouses will last for years and years. If placed in direct sun, colors will begin to gently fade over 2-3 months, but they will retain their shape for more than a year in fully exposed weather. Of course, it will last indefinitely indoors!
WHAT ABOUT RAIN OR SNOW?
Wild Woolies Birdhouses are made of water-repellent sheep’s wool. Moisture from rain or snow will wick through the felt and around the nest. Once the rain stops, the birdhouse will air-dry since wool naturally breathes. Also, wool is thermal; cool in summer and warm in winter!
HOW DO I CLEAN IT OUT?
It’s easy to remove old twigs and nesting materials from the handy clean-out hole in the base or through the entry hole. If the outside becomes soiled, a good brushing is usually all that’s needed. If it becomes stained, work the spot with water and mild soap, then rinse and air dry. Do not put into a washing machine or dryer.
ARE THE MATERIALS 'SUSTAINABLE'?
Our birdhouses are made with sustainably-harvested materials including natural sheep’s wool, a crocheted jute hanging cord and a hand-carved bamboo perch. All work is done by hand.
WHAT MAKES IT 'FAIR TRADE'?
These felt birdhouses are made by artisans in Kathmandu, Nepal, who are paid a fair wage and work in a clean, safe and environmentally-responsible workplace that meets international social compliance standards. Management promotes the development of skills and abilities of the artisans, most of whom are women.
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