Today 
Tomorrow
Overview
Making a bird box couldn't be simpler and is one of the best ways of attracting birds into your garden. This project uses a single piece of wood, costing just a couple of pounds, cut into six sections. Make sure you site your nesting box high up in a tree or building away from predators, strong sunlight and wind. A north-east facing spot is best.
Do it:
September - March
Takes just:
2 hours
How to do it
-
Cut the timber for the bird box into six sections using the following measurements: back panel 45cm x 15cm; base 11cm x 15cm; front 20cm x 15cm; Roof 21cm x 15cm; and two side panels cut for a sloping roof, 25cm high on the back x 20cm high at the front. -
Cut the wood along the pencil lines using a wood saw. Sand down all rough edges to protect the birds. -
Nail one of the sides to the base of the bird box, then nail them both to the back section. Hammer gently to avoid splitting the wood. -
Turn the nesting box on to the fixed side and nail the other side into position. Three nails for each join should be enough. -
Before fixing the front panel to the sides, make an entrance hole for the birds using a wide drill bit. Sand the edges smooth. -
A 25mm hole will attract blue, coal and marsh tits; a 28mm hole attracts great tits and a 32mm hole will attract house and tree sparrows and nuthatches.
-
Place the bird box on its back and nail the front to the sides. The pieces should all fit together without gaps. -
Use the self-tapping screws to fix the top to the sides and the front. This will allow you to remove the top to clean the bird box out. -
Drill a hole in the top of the bird box and attach it to a tree using a screw. Position in a sheltered north-east facing spot.
"Don't apply wood preservative, stain or paint near the entrance hole of the bird box because birds will peck there to make sure the box is safe."
