What Happens to Birdhouses Over Winter (and How to Care for Them)

As the weather turns cold and the last of the summer songs fade, you might wonder: what happens to birdhouses over winter? Do birds still use them, or should you take them down?
Here’s what really happens inside those little wooden homes once the temperatures drop — and how you can prepare your birdhouses for the cold months ahead.

Do Birds Use Birdhouses in Winter?

Yes — many birds use birdhouses in winter, just not for nesting. While spring and summer are for raising chicks, the colder months turn birdhouses into roosting shelters.
Species like chickadees, wrens, nuthatches, and bluebirds often huddle together in birdhouses (or “roost boxes”) to stay warm through freezing nights.

Inside, birds use leftover nesting materials, feathers, or even fresh twigs and leaves to insulate themselves. It’s nature’s version of a cozy cabin.

What Happens Inside Your Birdhouse When It’s Empty

If your birdhouse isn’t being used for roosting, it still faces the elements:

• Moisture buildup from rain or snow can cause wood to warp or rot.

• Insects or small mammals (like mice) may move in seeking warmth.

• Old nesting material can trap moisture, mold, or parasites.

That’s why it’s important to clean and inspect your birdhouses before winter fully sets in.

How to Prepare Birdhouses for Winter

A little seasonal maintenance can make a big difference. Here’s how to get your birdhouses ready:

1. Clean Out Old Nests

After the last brood has fledged (usually by early fall), remove all old nesting material. This helps prevent mites, bacteria, and mold.

2. Check for Damage

Inspect for cracks, loose screws, or broken perches. Tighten and repair as needed to keep the structure safe and dry.

3. Add Insulation (Optional)

You can leave a small layer of dry grass or wood shavings inside to make it more inviting for winter roosting.

4. Weatherproof the Exterior

Apply a non-toxic, outdoor-safe wood sealant to protect from snow and rain. Avoid painting the inside or the entrance hole.

 5. Keep It Up or Move It to a Sheltered Spot

You don’t need to take your birdhouse down! Birds appreciate extra shelter in winter. Just make sure it’s secure, out of direct wind, and slightly tilted forward so moisture can drain.

Should You Bring Birdhouses Indoors?

Most of the time, it’s better to leave them outdoors. Birds that overwinter in your area depend on any shelter they can find.
However, if your birdhouse is decorative or fragile, you can bring it inside for protection and rehang it in early spring.

When to Get Ready for Next Spring

Once temperatures start to rise again, give your birdhouses a final cleaning before nesting season begins. Late February or early March is the perfect time to prepare for new tenants.

Your birdhouses don’t go to waste during the winter months — they simply take on a new role. Whether they’re sheltering a few chickadees or waiting patiently for spring, a little care now helps ensure they’ll last for years to come.

So next time you glance outside on a snowy day, remember: your birdhouse might be keeping someone warm.