In northwestern Vermont, there is a stretch of swamp that is anything but ordinary. Here you’ll find a whimsical birdhouse forest full of brightly painted homes for swallows. The story behind this magical spot is one that began more than two decades ago and continues on to this day.
About 20 years ago, two neighbors, Jay and Hank, decided to wage a battle against the mosquitoes in the swamp along their land.
Flickr/karina yeznaian
The neighbors live near White’s Beach in South Hero.
TripAdvisor/Gordon B
The men built 20 bird houses hoping to attract the swallows that adore wetland environments and love to devour mosquitoes.
TripAdvisor/StarWeez
Hank and Jay’s wives suggested painting the birdhouses vibrant colors with red roofs and the tiny village of Jelly Bean Suites was born.
TripAdvisor/StarWeez
The first year, every birdhouse was occupied. Over the next two decades, more and more homes for the swallows were built, painted, and added to the birdhouse forest.
TripAdvisor/Brett S
Today there are around 800 enchanting little houses in the swamp for the birds that eat the blood-sucking bugs. There are fewer mosquitoes and most of the birdhouses are occupied.
TripAdvisor/StarWeez
What you’ll also find lurking in the swamp are dinosaurs. These creations are less practical but just as fantastical.
Google Images/Deborah Bergeron
The wooden dinosaurs are also created by the woodworkers and placed within the landscape for fun.
Google Images/Deborah Bergeron
The scene of Lake Champlain from the shores of White’s Beach is absolutely breathtaking, but the view of the birdhouse forest is just as captivating.
Google Images/Jonathan Haraden
Find the forest of Jelly Bean Suites on West Shore Road near White’s Beach in South Hero, Vermont.
Google Maps
Have you ever visited this whimsical birdhouse forest? Or is this story of the colorful swamp new to you?
Flickr/karina yeznaian
TripAdvisor/Gordon B
TripAdvisor/StarWeez
TripAdvisor/Brett S
Google Images/Deborah Bergeron
Google Images/Jonathan Haraden
Google Maps
For another beautiful yet unexpected attraction in Vermont, pay a visit to this delightful art park in the mountains.
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