How to Build a Birdhouse this Spring

Building a birdhouse can be a fun activity for you and your children. You'll also give your outdoor feathered friends a safe and cozy place to raise their family.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Untreated 1/2 inch thick boards such as pine, redwood or cedar. Plans for the birdhouse that is recommended for the species you want to attract. A light colored, non-toxic paint. A collar or baffle.

1. Saw the house panels. Saw the back, sides, front (with the pre-drilled hole), bottom and roof pieces according to the measurements in your plans.
2. Assemble the house. Nail the back panel to the floor. Now nail the sides, and the pre-drilled front panel. Lastly, nail the roof onto the top. Next, drill ventilation holes underneath the roofline. Also drill drainage holes in the bottom four corners to let rain escape if it gets in.
3. Now, paint the exterior of the birdhouse with your light, non-toxic paint. Let dry
4. Attach your birdhouse to a tree or fence post in your yard away from the prevailing winds. Attach the baffle underneath the birdhouse to discourage pests.

Tips & Warnings

• Since songbirds are territorial, make sure that you don't put your new birdhouse near any existing nesting birds.