Making a Bird Box.

For a plan of a Bird Box then click on the link. 

1. Birds will nest in holes in trees and all sorts of other places they think are safe. You can make boxes of all sizes so the sizes in the diagram are just a guide.

2. The minimum size of a bird box should be 100mm square and the bottom of the entrance hole should be 125mm from the floor.

3. Use galvanised nails or screws and rough wood. The joints do not need to be neat gaps will help with drainage and a flow of air will help with humidity in the bird box.

4. Use an old piece of leather or rubber to create a hinge. You will need to be able to open the lid to clean the box out at the end of the season. Fit a catch to the box to keep the lid down.

5. The entrance hole depends on the birds you want to attract. 25mm will be for Coal Tits, Marsh Tits, and Blue Tits. 28mm for Great Tits and Tree Sparrows and 32mm for for Nuthatches and Tree Sparrows. Some other birds will prefer just an open box. This can be created by putting a piece of wood on the front of the box half the size of the box. 

6. You can preserve a soft wood box by using water-based wood preservative.

7. When positioning a box it is best to have it facing in a westerly or easterly direction. If you face the box in a southerly direction it can get to hot. Make sure the box is in a safe position and away from cats.