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The Basic Steps to Build a Birdhouse

Cavity-nesting birds lose their habitat to agricultural practices, forest harvesting and building construction. Birdhouses provide them with alternative nesting sites. Building your own birdhouses provides recreational opportunities and learning experiences.
  1. Identification

    • Various birds need different birdhouse specifications, so you first need to decide on the bird species you want to attract. The variety of bird sizes and habits results in varying demands regarding birdhouse size, height above the ground and entrance-hole size.

    Preparing Panels

    • A birdhouse usually has at least six panels for the four walls, base and roof. Cut wood pieces to match your desired specifications. Wood with a thickness of three-quarters of an inch works best as birdhouse building material because of its versatility, low cost and good insulation properties.

    Assembly

    • Use nails or screws to hold the wood panels together. Choose concrete nails, ring shank nails or deck screws because they don't come loose easily. If you want to color the birdhouse, use a semi-transparent, oil-based stain or a lead-free paint in a natural color.