How to Make a Nesting Box For My Duck

Many species of ducks use holes in trees and other places to nest. Whether you want to keep ducks as pets or place your boxes in the wild to attract local ducks, a nesting box can be a fun project. There are many plans on how to build specific nesting boxes. Here are some tips.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Saw
• Drill
• Jigsaw
• Screwdriver
• Measuring Tape
• Pencil
• Wood shavings

1. Use cedar to make your nest box. Cedar is resistant to weather and insects, plus it smells good. Pine and plywood are also acceptable choices.

2. 

   Cut your wood according to the plans located in the resource section of this guide. The box should be an elongated rectangle in shape with a 4 1/2 inch oval for entry and a hinged door for cleaning.

3. Place 4-6 inches of wood shaving in the bottom of the box for nesting materials. Do not use sawdust.

4. Select an ideal location for your nesting box. If placing in the wild, find a location near water, such as a river, marsh or swamp.

5. Place your nesting box with the opening facing the water. You can place it on live or dead trees, or a steel pole 4-6 feet above the water level. Clear branches and other obstacles from the path of your nesting box.

6. Clean the box every year after the brood has been raised. Remove old nesting materials and replace with fresh wood chips.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to include drainage holes in the floor of your box.
• Do not use finish or varnish on the inside of your nesting box.
• Do not use sawdust for bedding.

Resources

• Unique Nesting Box ideas
• Plans for a nest box with predator guard
• Plan for a nesting box