Home Tweet Home: Birds Rate the Birdhouses That Will Make Your Yard Sing

The best nests for the discerning fowl

midcentury MCM birdhouse hipster delight — (Photo: PleasantRanch/Etsy)

1. Mid-Century Modern Hipster’s Delight

Fledgling trendsetters will love the low-slung, tropical vibe of this single-story bungalow. The breezeway block provides great airflow throughout while the rich woodwork contrasts with the almost pastel blue walls to create a seductive mix of warm and cool. The two-tone perch offers a prime spot to hang out and belt a tune or simply brood in silence. No pets allowed, but the succulents come with the rental.

User Review: “No pets my tailfeathers. Cats! Jeez. Did I mention these people have CATS!” —Ruffld

2. Pristine Waterfront Stunner for the Whole Flock

Enjoy astounding views from the front perch of this perfect seaside getaway. Ample windows flood the open-plan interior with natural light and allow the gentle sea breezes to keep the place cool and fresh. A side-entry porthole means you and your guests can come and go without disturbing the faux flowers out front. Lots of great dining nearby, including a burger joint with outdoor seating — a forage-free repository of dropped French fries.

User Review: “Came for the views, stayed for the fries. Delish. Must have gained two ounces, but worth it!” —WorkingBlue

3. Cutting Edge Studio that Feels Like Mama’s Place

Put the ova back in sleepova with this elegant spheroid tribute to where it all began. The glossy exterior gives it a sheen so sleek you can check your crest in the reflection. The small entryway will keep out the riff raff — sparrows and the like — while welcoming smaller travelers. When you nestle up inside, every position is a fetal position, and you’ll be so refreshed in the morning, going out will make you feel hatched all over again.

User Review: “Five stars! This is an apartment complex for your Oedipal Complex. —Needlebeak04

User Review: “It was OK, but the egg gimmick wasn’t all it was cracked up to be. Sarcophagus anyone?” —FinchyFinch

Owner response: “We’re sorry your stay was less than satisfactory. But we are a strictly a small-bird eggsperience.”

4. Deep Woods Rustic Charmer

Reach back to simpler times with this simple design. The interior recalls nothing if not a hollowed-out tree (remember trees?), and the only “logging on” you’ll do here is throwing another hunk of firewood into the stone hearth. What it lacks in modern conveniences, it makes up for in atmosphere, including the forested setting. Let nature, in all its secluded beauty, help you unplug and leave behind the constant tweeting.

User Review: “Flew halfway across the continent because of the rave reviews. Lived up to its rep as a restful refuge.” —FeatherLocklear

5. Commuter’s Delight: Majestic Triplex Townhouse

This multi-tiered suburban manor offers four units, each with its own entry, so you can check in for a romantic getaway or gather up a clutch of friends and rent the whole place as a group party palace. The plush landscape includes a well-kept yard and a trim hedge chock full of beetles. A recently updated outhouse, just across the grass, offers new seat cushions and a glass-top table for target practice.

User Review: “I’m seed intolerant, so the owner stocked up on back No-Melt Mealworm Suet. What a mensch.” —BigRed2201

6. Rooster’s Roost

Why go off half-cocked when you can get the full experience? This unique single-room poultry cowpoke will add a little Old West spirit to any bachelor party. You can preen on the tail feathers or settle back in the cavernous body and kick up your heels — the thigh’s the limit. This old bird may look a intimidating, but don’t be a…scaredy cat.

User Review: “Let’s be honest. The whole place is a kitsch-fest. I came on a lark, but the old bird grew on me.” —BohoWax