Duncraft, the catalog for wild bird and nature enthusiasts, welcomes spring songbirds with their latest assortment of bird specific nesting boxes and nesting materials. From attractive natural gourds and traditional bird house designs to owl and duck boxes, Duncraft offers more housing options for the backyard birder than any other source. In addition, you'll find decorative and convenient nest building materials fashioned into lovely wreaths for hanging, or cleverly stuffed into all natural bright red gourds, plus much more.

In a recent conversation with Sharon Dunn, president of Duncraft, we discussed the importance of providing housing for resident as well as migratory birds. "Migratory birds are increasingly vulnerable to loss of habitat. Although we often think of South American rain forest devastation as causing reductions in certain migratory birds, the loss of nesting habitat here in North America causes birds of all species greater stress and competition--as our woodlands and wetlands diminish. Providing nesting alternatives for these birds is important, and it must be housing that each species will actually use--each nest box has to be built to the correct specifications or it just won't work--the birds won't use it."

Dunn continues, "So, at Duncraft, we offer housing for a great many species of those birds who use housing, and that includes ducks, owls, kestrels, as well as songbirds such as bluebirds, chickadees and wrens and so on. Our boxes meet each bird's specific size and health requirements. Many include starter nesting materials appropriate to that bird! We also offer 100% wool as well as moss, cotton and other fibers as nest building materials. Our goal is to supply the information and materials needed to promote success in individual conservation efforts, and I think we've accomplished that."

Duncraft customers and visitors are treated to an abundance of relevant, seasonal birding information and tips. Typically, Duncraft's blog includes a seasonal specific article, and this month's is on the spring mating and nesting rituals of backyard songbirds. Browse the Duncraft blog and pick up lots of terrific tidbits of information. For example, did you know that one of the first signs that mating has begun is a dramatic increase in bird song? Males sing to define and defend their territory, alert other birds to danger and to attract a mate. Females will choose a mate that either exhibits the perfect song or appearance--or perhaps owns the most desired territory.