Building the Perfect Bird Box

For many people, watching wildlife is pleasurable hobby. By building a bird box, a wide variety of species can be observed quite easily. Building a bird box requires a few simple tools and just a few easy steps.

The Design

Depending on the type of bird that one desires to see, there are a variety of box types that can be made. The type of box and size of the entry hole will dictate the type of species. For example, a bluebird will need an entrance hole to be 1 1/2 inches where as a larger bird such as a redheaded woodpecker would need a hole to measure 2 inches.

The Materials and Building

For a basic bird house that will attract a wide variety of songbirds, a simple house can be made out of one single board. The board should measure 1" x 6". Three pieces that are 6" x 8" will be for the back, front and proof. Two pieces measuring 4" x 8" are for the sides and one piece that is 4" x 4" will make up the floor. A whole that is 1 1/2 inches in diameter should be drilled approximately 2 inches from the top of the box. A few small holes can be drilled into the floor to promote water drainage.

With all of the pieces cut, the box needs to simply be constructed. This should be done with galvanized nails.

One side should be attached to the bottom first. Then the back and front should be attached. The last side of the roof should be done with screws so it can be easily accessed for cleaning.

After construction, the house should be painted or stained so that it is more durable. It can be hung in a tree or mounted in a pole. Care should be taken to not place bird boxes too close to one another. After the box is completed, one just needs to wait for some new inhabitants.

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