Anna,

Having lived in Kitsap Co. for the last 5 years (until this month), I think I
can explain at least some of those funny shaped birdhouses you refered to.

>others prefer higher nests? We noticed some strange-shaped boxes on
>fences this summer: tapered till the bottom front met the bottom back.
>Were those for bluebirds? I didn't see how *any* birds could make a nest
>in those boxes! Any Tweeters have experiences with or know of those boxes?


Those bird houses are part of a bluebird "restoration" project sponsored by the
Kitsap County Audubon Society.

I was involved with 4 or 5 KAS members in the construction of them late last
winter. Some of the members who have land with suitable habitat for Western
Bluebirds volunteered to have houses placed there. The houses' funny shape is
the Peterson design.

Although very uncommon now, W. Bluebirds do breed in Kitsap Co. I know of
only 2 sites though. One is in the southern part of the county at Camp Nawana,
a Campfire Girl property. The other site is near the Sandhill are northwest of
Belfair.

Fred Rutan, of Port Orchard, is the project director. He can be reached at
(206) 871-4131. He is anxious to find more people with interest and especially
with the proper habitat for these birds. He'll even provide the houses!

Scott Ray
SCRAY at DELPHI.COM
Yakima, WA