Keeping cool with ice

[Maybelle]

In an effort to keep my BB nestlings cool, I have placed ice packs used in coolers on top of the bluebird box. I am surprised how long it remains icy and cold. I don’t know if it helps, but at least their roof should not be hot. I’m now wondering what would happen if a small one was placed UNDER the roof. This could easily be done with a roof that opens up on the top of the box.

At present we have a box like that with no eggs or nestlings currently in residence and I may try it with a thermometer placed inside as well and see how cool it gets.

Has anyone tried such a thing? What risks would there be?

• This topic was modified 5 years, 4 months ago by Maybelle.

Cari
Willamette Valley, Oregon

[Sassy]

Cari, wouldn’t the ice pack sweat and melt dripping water into the nest causing a wet nest and mold. That is the only draw back I can think of.
Connie (PA)

[Maybelle]

I was concerned about the possibility of dripping water, but was surprised to find those removed hours later from the top of the nest box still seemed cool but not dripping, nor could I detect water accumulation in the plastic bag I placed them in. I was surprised how long they stayed cold.

Cari
Willamette Valley, Oregon

[Sassy]

Cari, that is good to know. We as a rule do not get overly hot for any extended period of time, but I know lots of members have that problem living in the south or mid-western states. This may be a solution for them. Thanks for the info.
Connie (PA)

• This reply was modified 5 years, 4 months ago by Sassy.

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