A simple project for bird lovers that they can put in their backyard to enjoy bird watching is a bird house. Frequently, home owners will construct two houses to attract multiple species of birds to their yard. You can find bird house plans for free at various bird society and nature websites.
Step by step instructions are generally included in plans outlining the process of building a specific type. Some birds will actually use another bird’s nest as a home, so these types of birds could really use a home of their own. Bluebirds are one such species, and because of suburban community development their population has continued to decline since they are having a much more difficult time finding a home.
Materials
Because each species has its own needs and requirements for living, many bird house plans will be specifically designed for that species only. Plans for two different species could overlap a bit, meaning you might be able to use a plan designed for several species of small birds, while also being able to use a plan designed for several species of larger birds.
Cedar is an excellent wood to use for because it naturally repels insects. This will result in birds finding the house more attractive since they know insects will not be a disturbance.
Placement
Other instructions included in a plan could include how to attach or place one on the top of a pole or post. This is designed to make it difficult for predators to gain access a bird’s home. Some of the predators include raccoons, squirrels, and cats. They will often climb a tree to get into the bird house, where they will proceed to eat the eggs that are inside.
However, when it’s placed on top of a pole, predators a much less likely to be able to get to the eggs or young birds. The bird house plans will indicate how high it should be mounted, so predators can’t get in while the owner can still view it in order to see the nest developing.
Bird house plans might also include the ability to open the front of the house to view the nestlings and the nesting process from beginning to end. The front of some houses are able to open on a hinge while having a clear plastic interior to leave the nest undisturbed but still allowing people to see inside.