The “Factory” where Dodson Bird Houses are Made 
Properly Ventilated and Provided for Cleaning 
One of the factors that must be right before the birds will take up their home 
in a man-made house, is the matter of ventilation. I have spent many days and 
months in experimenting with this phase of bird life and bird attraction. My 
keenest observation finally led me to the importance of this seeming detail, ven¬ 
tilation. , 
In designing and constructing these houses, I have never lost sight of the 
importance of scientifically harmonizing with the natural instinct and incentive of 
the birds for fresh air. Our Bird Friends do not like fresh air admitted through 
cracks, as they insist on their houses being dry and free from drafts. To afford 
proper ventilation and yet offer a shelter free from drafts, is a scientific detail 
wrung from Nature’s garden and found in every Dodson Bird House. 
Little Things the Birds Like 
Among other minutiae that the birds are attracted by is a bit of red cedar. 
Whether it is the aromatic quality of this wood or whether it is pleasing to them 
in some other way, I have been unable to determine, 
but they are won by it, and a bit of it is included in 
every Dodson House. 
They are also attracted to a home by something 
shiny or bright. Strange to say, the placing of this 
bit of brightness is a nicety determined only after 
years of observation, and for that reason a small 
piece of shiny metal, non-corrodible, acting as a 
mirror, is made part of each Dodson House. 
The size of opening is a determining element and 
has much to do with the contentment of the birds, 
for when just the right size, the house can be well 
defended by the inmates against their many foes. 
This trivial detail is of large moment to the Birds. 
Such apparent trivialities as painting, even the 
inside of the house, or sills, I have found will militate 
against its ready occupancy. “Perfection is no 
trifle, but trifles make perfection . ” 
Bird Study at Close Ran&e 
