Bluebirds. Almost extinct once.... but on
the rise now, thanks to dedicated bird enthusiasts who have built nesting
boxes, nest trails, etc.
The first nesting
produces 5 babies, and these 5 young birds in turn help feed the 2nd batch of babies.
Then the 1st and 2nd batch help feed the 3rd batch! The parent bluebirds are
very protective of their nest box and the young birds. They will dive bomb
birds 5 times their size!
Plans for a
Bluebird Nest Box
Directions— The whole box can be built from lumber 1”x6”(actually measures ¾” by 5½”)x5’long. Pine or cedar are good choices, but ¾” plywood can be used.
Draw the various pieces to size on the board and cut them out.
In the front panel, drill the entrance hole
1½” in diameter for eastern bluebirds and 1 9/16” for mountain and western
bluebirds. Then drill ¼” diameter
ventilation holes near the top of each side piece. Next drill a 1/8” diameter hole near the bottom of the right-hand
side, where it will overlap the floor; a fastener will go through it and screw
into the edge of the floor to keep the side-opening door closed. Finally, drill holes near the top and bottom
of the back panel for mounting the box.
Nail the pieces together with galvanized
nails. Be sure to fasten the right-hand
panel near the top only—one nail through the front of the box and one nail
through the back—placing each nail 8” up from the bottom. This will allow the side to pivot open on
these nails.
A small strip of wood can be nailed to cover
the seam where the top meets the back, in order to keep the rain out.
The outside of the box can be finished with a
little linseed oil. Let it be totally
absorbed and dry before putting up the box.
Be sure the side opens smoothly, and then
place a fastener through the hole drilled for that purpose and into the floor
to hold it closed.
—
To attract Hummingbirds:
you can hang feeders filled with sugar water from a tree. Hummingbird food: Mix and boil 2 minutes 4 cups of water and 1
cup of sugar; when cooled pour into
feeders.