While we are on the subject of birds, now is a great time to prepare for spring visitors, namely bluebirds.
Following are plans and tips for building bluebird boxes to attract this colorful species. This is a great project to share with a youngster.
A single nesting house can be built with a single 1” x 6” x 5’ board. The hole in the front should be 1 1/2” in diameter and 2 1/4” from the top of the front piece. It’s easier to drill this hole before you assemble the house. The hole size and the placement is critical.
Some may install a perch under the hole, but bluebirds don’t need one, and a perch encourages sparrows to take over the box.
Consider cutting off the corners on the floor piece for drainage.
You may assemble this house with 1 1/2” nails or (as I prefer) screws. Screws make it easier to remove the front, or floor, for easier cleaning. If you clean out the old nest after the first family has hatched, you may have two or three broods in a season.
The finest box in the world will not attract birds if you do not locate it properly. Mount the box four to six feet (1.2 to 1.8 meters) above the ground in an open area. If it faces toward a tree, the nestlings will have a safe target for that initial flight from the box. Consider an alternative location if birds do not nest in the first season.
You may choose to mount the box on a pole or tree. Round, metal poles are great for protection against predators.
Get creative! Paint the birdhouse in bright colors or your favorite design. Use stamps or stencils too.
If needed, additional information and pictures may be found at . Remember, help is just around the corner at your local hardware store.
