Eastern Bluebird Bird House Plans : House Plans

Eastern Bluebird Bird House Plans

Eastern Bluebirds (Sialia sialis) are a beloved backyard bird known for their vibrant blue plumage and cheerful songs. Providing a suitable nesting site is crucial for their success and conservation. Building a birdhouse specifically designed for Eastern Bluebirds is a rewarding project that can attract these beautiful birds to your property.

Materials:

1x6 treated pine board (10 inches wide, 18 inches long)
1x4 treated pine board (6 inches wide, 8 inches long)
1x2 treated pine board (12 inches long)
1/2-inch wood screws
1-inch wood screws
Drill
Screwdriver
Measuring tape or ruler
Pencil or marking tool

Dimensions:

Front: 5.5 inches wide x 8 inches tall
Sides: 5.5 inches wide x 10 inches tall
Back: 5.5 inches wide x 10 inches tall
Roof: 6 inches wide x 10 inches long
Perch: 1 inch wide x 2 inches long

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cut the Pieces:

Using the dimensions above, cut the following pieces:

1x6 treated pine board: 2x sides, 1x back
1x4 treated pine board: 1x front
1x2 treated pine board: 1x roof, 1x perch

2. Assemble the Box:

Place the back piece on a flat surface and attach the side pieces to the left and right edges using 1-inch wood screws. Make sure the side pieces are flush with the bottom of the back piece. Next, attach the front piece to the front of the box using 1-inch wood screws.

3. Create the Roof:

Place the roof piece over the top of the box and secure it with 1-inch wood screws. Ensure the roof overhangs the box by about 1 inch on all sides for protection from rain.

4. Install the Perch:

To create a perch for the birds to land on, attach the 1x2 piece horizontally to the front of the box, 2 inches from the bottom. Center the perch and secure it with 1/2-inch wood screws.

5. Drill Drainage Holes:

Drill small drainage holes in the bottom of the box to prevent water accumulation, which can lead to mold or rot.

6. Finish:

Optional: You can paint or stain the birdhouse to match your desired aesthetic or to protect it from the elements. Allow it to dry completely before installing.

Installation:

Choose a suitable location for the birdhouse, such as a tree branch or a pole in an open area with minimal disturbance from predators. Hang the birdhouse approximately 5-8 feet above the ground.

Maintenance:

To ensure the birdhouse remains in good condition, perform regular maintenance by cleaning it once or twice a year. Remove old nesting materials, disinfect the inside of the box with a mild cleaning solution, and make necessary repairs if any.