Birdhouse Plans

Before I built my first birdhouse, I did a little research to find out if my birdhouse plans were on target for attracting birds to my backyard. I had a lot to learn, and by the end of the day I was back at my drawing board with a new set of plans. Interestingly enough, most of the ideas I had about making a house for birds were wrong.

Birdhouse Plans Myth #1 - One Size Fits All?

The first thing I learned about bird houses is that you can't build one size house to fit all birds. Bird species are very particular about where they live. If you want to attract bluebirds, for example, you'll need to find a bird house plan designed specifically for bluebirds.

Myth #2 - Birds Like a Perch?

I used to think that all birdhouses were supposed to have a perch - something the birds can land on before they pop inside the house. Ironically, this is probably the worst thing to include in the design. A perch gives predators easy access to whatever is inside the house (like young fledglings), so don't put use perches. They're not needed.

Myth #3 - Any Old Wood Will Do?

The material you use for birdhouse plans is more important than you think. First of all, birds like a little insulation, so use wood that is at least ¾ inches thick. Stay away from treated, outdoor lumber, and don't use wood that is painted on the inside of the house. Both contain harmful chemicals. Cedar is the perfect choice. It's naturally resistant to rot and hungry insects, and it looks good too!