DIY Guide: How to Build a Birdhouse for Your Feathered Friends

Bird watching is an enjoyable hobby that many people indulge in. If you want to attract birds to your garden, building a birdhouse is one of the best ways to do so. A birdhouse not only provides birds with shelter but also gives you the opportunity to observe them up close. In this article, we will guide you through the process of building a DIY birdhouse.

Choose the Right Materials

Before you start building your birdhouse, choose the right materials. Wood is the best material as it is durable and easy to work with. You can use pine, cedar or cypress wood. Avoid using pressure-treated wood or chemically-treated plywood as it can be harmful to birds. It is also important to use non-toxic paint if you plan to paint your birdhouse.

Get the Measurements Right

To build a birdhouse, you need to get the measurements right. Different bird species prefer different sized birdhouses. For example, a Bluebird prefers a birdhouse with a 1.5-inch entrance hole, while a Robin prefers a birdhouse with a 1.75-inch entrance hole. Make sure you research the bird species in your area before building a birdhouse.

Cut the Wood

Once you have the right measurements, it's time to cut the wood. Use a saw to cut the wood according to the measurements. You will need five pieces of wood – two sides, a front, a back, and a roof. Sand the edges of the wood to make them smooth.

Assemble the Birdhouse

Now that you have cut the wood, it's time to assemble the birdhouse. Use a hammer and nails to put the pieces of wood together. Make sure the birdhouse is sturdy and the pieces of wood are securely fastened.

Add a Perch and Entrance Hole

To make the birdhouse more attractive, you can add a perch and an entrance hole. Use a drill to create a hole in the front of the birdhouse for the entrance and attach a perch below it. The perch should be about an inch below the entrance hole.

Paint the Birdhouse

If you want to paint your birdhouse, use non-toxic paint. You can also leave the birdhouse natural, as birds do not care much about the color. If you do paint the birdhouse, let it dry completely before placing it in your garden.