How to Build a Birdhouse with Extra Nesting Space for Birds

Build a Birdhouse with Extra Nesting Space for Birds

Hey there, bird lovers! Are you ready to become a backyard bird sanctuary? We're going to build a birdhouse that's extra spacious and cozy, giving our feathered friends the best nesting experience possible. It's a fun project that you can do with your family, and you'll be rewarded with the joy of watching birds raise their young.

Let's get started! First things first, you'll need to gather your supplies. Don't worry, you probably have most of them around the house already.

Supplies You'll Need

• Wooden boards (1/2 inch thick is ideal) - You'll need various lengths depending on the size of the birdhouse you want to build. Think about the size of the birds you want to attract.
• Wood glue
• Screws (1 1/2 inches long)
• Hammer
• Drill with drill bits
• Saw (circular saw or handsaw)
• Measuring tape
• Pencil
• Sandpaper (various grits)
• Paint or stain (optional)
• Roofing shingles (optional)
• Birdhouse entrance hole cutter (optional)

Choosing the Right Birdhouse Design

Now, let's talk design! You've got tons of options here. You can create a traditional birdhouse with a simple box shape or get fancy and build a more elaborate design.

Here are some factors to consider when choosing your design:

• Bird species: What kind of birds are you trying to attract? Different birds have different preferences when it comes to nesting cavities. For example, chickadees and bluebirds prefer small entrance holes, while woodpeckers need larger ones.
• Size: Larger birdhouses offer more nesting space and are better for raising multiple chicks.
• Materials: Wood is the most common and natural material for birdhouses. You can also use recycled materials, like plastic containers or even repurposed wooden crates.
• Location: Where will you place the birdhouse? Consider the surrounding environment and choose a design that blends in with the landscape.

The Step-by-Step Construction Process

Okay, here's the fun part - actually building the birdhouse! Follow these instructions, and you'll be a birdhouse building pro in no time.

Step 1: Cut the Wood Pieces

Start by measuring and cutting the wooden boards to the desired dimensions. You'll need a bottom, a top, two sides, and two ends. A good starting point is to make a birdhouse around 10 inches tall, 8 inches wide, and 8 inches deep, but you can adjust the dimensions based on the type of birds you want to attract.

Step 2: Assemble the Base

Lay out the bottom, two sides, and two ends on a flat surface. Use wood glue and screws to attach the sides and ends to the bottom. Make sure the joints are tight and secure. You can use clamps to help hold the pieces together while the glue dries.

Step 3: Create the Birdhouse Entrance Hole

This is where the fun begins! You can create the entrance hole using a drill and a wood bit, or use a dedicated birdhouse entrance hole cutter. The size of the entrance hole depends on the type of bird you want to attract. A good rule of thumb is to make the entrance hole slightly larger than the bird's head.

Be careful when drilling and make sure to use a drill bit that's big enough. A smaller bit could cause the wood to split.

Step 4: Add the Roof

Now, let's build the roof. Measure and cut two pieces of wood to match the width and length of the birdhouse. Attach them together to create a gable roof shape.

To make the roof more durable and weather-resistant, you can use roofing shingles. Simply nail them to the roof using roofing nails.

Step 5: Secure the Roof

Carefully place the roof onto the birdhouse and secure it with screws or nails. If you're using roofing shingles, make sure they overlap properly to prevent water from leaking in.

Step 6: Add a Perch (Optional)

Adding a perch is a nice touch and makes it easier for birds to land on the birdhouse. You can create a perch using a small branch or a piece of wood. Simply drill a hole through the perch and the side of the birdhouse and attach them with a screw.

Step 7: Finish and Decorate

Sand down all the rough edges of the birdhouse to make sure it's smooth for the birds. You can then paint or stain the birdhouse to protect it from the elements and add a touch of personality.

Be creative with your decorations! You can add a small birdhouse sign, a colorful paint scheme, or even use natural materials like twigs and pine cones.

Setting Up Your Birdhouse

Congratulations! You've built a beautiful and functional birdhouse. Now it's time to find the perfect spot for it.

• Choose a location: Pick a location that's out of direct sunlight and rain, but still gets enough light and ventilation.
• Height: Place the birdhouse at least 5 feet off the ground to deter predators.
• Placement: Choose a location that's sheltered from strong winds.
• Accessibility: Make sure the birdhouse is accessible for you to clean and monitor.

Tips for Attracting Birds to Your Birdhouse

Ready to have your birdhouse buzzing with activity? Here are some tips to help you attract birds:

• Provide food: Set up a bird feeder nearby to entice birds to your backyard.
• Offer water: Provide a birdbath or a shallow dish of water for birds to drink and bathe.
• Create a welcoming environment: Plant native plants and trees that attract birds.
• Be patient: It may take some time for birds to discover your birdhouse.

Enjoy Your New Birdhouse!

You've done it! You've built a birdhouse with extra nesting space and created a welcoming home for birds. Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. Remember to keep an eye on your birdhouse and clean it out regularly.

Happy birdwatching!