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The Bottom Line

Small but surprisingly sturdy, these natural raffia grass roosting pockets from Duncraft are an easy, convenient way to add quick winter bird shelters to your backyard. Suitable for a variety of small birds, these shelters offer critical protection from snow, rain and cold.



Pros

• All natural material construction.
• Can be used as small bird houses.
• Variety of shapes for backyard interest.

Cons

• Hanging loops may require additional hooks for use.
• Grass construction eventually loosens over time.
• Difficult to clean because of natural texture.

Description

• Name: Roosting Pockets
• Manufacturer: Duncraft
• House Style: Hanging cavity
• Height: 8-10 inches (20-25 cm) including attached hanging loop
• Width: 5-6 inches (13-15 cm)
• Depth: 5-6 inches (13-15 cm)
• Entrance Hole Diameter: 1.5-2 inches (4-5 cm)
• Construction: Natural raffia grass, similar natural materials
• Intended Birds: Chickadees, finches, wrens, sparrows
• Price: $15.95 for a set of 3 (via Duncraft; other retailers may sell pockets separately)

Guide Review - Roosting Pockets From Duncraft

Winter can be a harsh season for backyard birds, and adding winter bird shelters to your yard can help your birds survive plummeting temperatures, heavy snowfall, freezing rain, biting winds and other hazards. These roosting pockets from Duncraft come in an easy set of three, with each shelter in a different shape: cone, oval and acorn styles. With the attached hanging loops, they can be added to a winter backyard in an instant, though additional hooks may be needed for secure hanging.

Each pocket is made of natural materials with thick raffia fibers woven on a sturdy frame. While the natural grasses are attractive, they can unravel over time, particularly after repeated exposure to harsh weather conditions, and may only be viable for a few seasons. Conscientious birders will place the roosting pockets in a protected area, which will not only increase their longevity, but also provides even more protection for roosting birds. As the pockets unravel they become less protective, and the acorn shape in particular has a looser weave that may decay more quickly. Opportunistic birds may even strip grasses from the roosting pockets for nesting material.

The entrance holes are located in the middle or lower portions of the shelters, positioning that helps keep birds' body heat in the shelter for a cozy winter night. While the looseness of the weave may cause eventual decay, it also ensures proper air circulation and allows waste, dirt and debris to keep from accumulating excessively. At the same time, this construction can make cleaning the shelters difficult if mites or other pests are present.

These simple roosting pockets are a great way to add easy winter shelter to a chilly backyard. Coming in a convenient set of three, they are economical either for one backyard or to give as gifts for birders. Birders who choose these roosting pockets may soon have overnight houseguests in the form of grateful chickadees, finches, sparrows and other small backyard birds.



Disclosure: A review sample was provided by the manufacturer. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.