Build three different birdhouses

The Bluebird

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This is the simplest house of the three and a good starting project for beginning woodworkers. Cut the front and back from 4"-wide stock. Form the gable peaks by trimming the top ends to 60°. Then, cross cut the back bottom edge 9 3/4" from the peak. Cut the curved bottom end on the house front and drill a 1 1/4" hole, 3" below the peak.

Next, cut the sides, bevelling the top edges to 60° before making the bottom. Attach the sides to the front, then slip the bottom in place and secure it. Before making the roof, cut out the trim and notch the corner overhang so it sits flat.

Cut the roof parts from 8"-wide stock, bevelling both ends to 60°. Shape the profile on the edges of the roof, or leave as is. If you opt for the shaped profile, remember to make a right and left version. Assemble and finish the same way as The Blue Wren.

Blue Warbler

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This house is similar to The Bluebird except it's roomier and a little fancier. Cut the front from 6 1/2"-wide stock, including the 60° bevel that forms the top peak and the bottom end grid pattern. Cut the back the same shape as the front, except cross cut the bottom edge square, 10 1/4" below the peak.

Now add some flair by gluing and nailing 30° wedge-shaped wings to the front sides, 7" from the bottom edge. Drill a 1 1/2" entrance hole. Before cutting the bottom, cut the sides and the bevelled 60° top edges. Assemble and finish the house.

Location, Location
Ideally, your house should be at least 8' off the ground. Woodpeckers and purple martins prefer much more elevated perches ranging from 10' to 20' in height.

Most birds prefer an entry hole diameter between 1 1/4" and 2"; obviously larger birds, such as owls, prefer larger holes-up to 6" in diameter.

The distance of the entry hole from the floor of the birdhouse is important. Some birds, like robins, barn swallows and purple martins, prefer it to be down close to the floor, about 1" to 2". Most other birds prefer holes elevated between 4" to 8" above the house floor.

Other factors determine the popularity of your new house. It's essential to locate the house close to a feeder and water reservoir. After all, birds, like humans, search for convenience when looking for a place to nest.

The water source should be within 10' of your birdhouse and a variety of food (depending on what species you're trying to attract) should also be nearby.

Planting shrubs and flowers will also help attract a larger variety of local birds. Cardinals, orioles and doves avoid birdhouses-no matter how attractive-preferring to build their nests in the shelter of trees and shrubs. - Douglas Thomson

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