Directions for Making a Martin Birdhouse

Find six to eight bottle gourds or birdhouse gourds that are at least 8 inches in diameter and 6 inches in height. Some specialist retailers sell dried and cleaned gourds that are ready for cutting into birdhouses. Martins prefer large gourds, so get bigger ones if possible. You need to prepare several gourds because martins live in groups.

Measure a point about 5 inches up the side of each gourd. With this point at the center, draw a 2-inch entrance hole on the gourd. Cut out the hole.

Drill at least four 1/4-inch holes in the lowest point of the bottom of each gourd. Poke a stick through the holes to remove any lodged debris. These holes allow water to drain out so it doesn't accumulate in the gourd.

Measure 1 or 2 inches down from the top of each gourd and drill two 1/4-inch holes in opposite sides of the gourd. The hanging line for the gourd will go through these holes.

Reach into each gourd and remove the seeds inside. You can remove or leave the pith inside to allow the birds to get a good footing.

Mix 1 pound of copper sulfate and 5 gallons of water in a large container. Stir to thoroughly mix the solution, then immerse every gourd under the surface for at least 20 minutes. This process kills bacteria that could rot the gourds, helping them last longer. Drain the gourds and let them dry.

Use a paintbrush to apply white house paint to the gourds. The paint reflects sunlight and keeps the gourds cool in hot weather.

Thread a 24-inch plastic-coated copper wire through the two holes at the top of each gourd until the portions that come out of the two holes are equally long. Bend them upward and twist them around each other.

Hang the martin birdhouse about 10 to 15 feet above the ground, from a line between two support poles or from a clothesline.