Springtime often means yard work, but one of the most enjoyable small projects this time of year involves birds—either feeding them or providing shelter. Building a birdhouse is a great activity for the whole family. It requires minimal tools, sparks creativity, and offers a rewarding way to connect with nature. Plus, creating a safe space for your feathered friends can be a soothing escape from today’s fast-paced world.
Planning Your Birdhouse
Before you start, decide what type of bird you want to attract. This is crucial because different species have specific nesting needs, including floor size, depth, entrance hole placement, and height above the ground. If you want birds to actually use the house, these details matter (see chart below).
One of the most common backyard birds, especially in colder months, is the chickadee. There are seven species of chickadees found across North America:
- Black-capped Chickadee
- Carolina Chickadee
- Mountain Chickadee
- Mexican Chickadee
- Boreal Chickadee
- Gray-headed Chickadee
- Chestnut-backed Chickadee
Each species requires slightly different house dimensions, much like how human homes must follow building codes. For example, when building a Black-capped Chickadee house, you need to follow these rules:
- Floor size: 5″ x 5″
- Interior height: 8″
- Diameter of Hole for entry: 1.5″
- Height of entrance hole from the floor: 6″
- Height off the ground when installed: 5 – 10′
Birdhouse Specs & Mounting Heights for Different Species
Choosing the Right Wood
Selecting the right wood is key to building a durable birdhouse. The best choices include cypress, redwood, and cedar, which naturally resist insects and weather. Pine, fir, and oak also hold up well. However, avoid plywood and OSB, as they don’t handle outdoor exposure well, and the resins used in them may be harmful to birds. Never use pressure-treated wood or aromatic cedar, as these can be toxic.
Gathering Materials
To build a simple chickadee house*, you’ll need a few additional materials:
- Rust-resistant (galvanized) round or oval-head wood screws
- A few brads (to hold pieces while glue sets)
- Waterproof wood glue (such as Titebond III or Elmer’s WoodGlue Max)
- Optional: Sheet metal, copper, or an old license plate for roofing—just be sure to combine it with wood to prevent overheating on hot days.
Essential Tools
Birdhouses are small and simple, making them ideal for kids and novice woodworkers. Hand tools are usually enough unless you’re mass-producing houses. Recommended tools include:
- Hand miter saw (for precise 90° and 45° cuts)
- Combination square (for accurate markings)
- Hammer and brads
- Drill and bits (including spade or hole saw for the entrance hole)
- #8 x 1 ¼” screws and a #2 Phillips screwdriver
- Sandpaper (100 grit)
- Measuring tape or carpenter’s rule
Construction Steps
- Measure and Cut – Lay out your plan carefully. Measure twice, cut once. If a plan calls for two identical pieces, cut them together for uniformity. Sand rough edges.
- Drill the Entrance Hole – Make sure the edges are smooth, as birds will frequently come into contact with this area.
- Assemble the House – Start with the back and one side, using glue and brads to hold them together. Attach the second side, then the front.
- Attach the Roof – Some roofs should be removable for cleaning. Secure these with screws instead of glue.
- Add Ventilation and Drainage – Drill 3/8″ holes in the floor corners for drainage and along the back under the eaves for ventilation.
Finishing Touches
When it comes to finishing, less is more. Birds prefer natural-looking homes, so avoid glossy paints and varnishes. New wooden houses may not be used right away, as birds often wait for them to weather. To speed up the process, use weathered wood or paint the house in muted, natural tones like gray, tan, or rust.
Helping Your New Tenants
Once the birdhouse is in place, you can help birds settle in by providing nearby nesting materials. Try leaving these items in a basket, on a fence, or draped over a bush:
- Small twigs
- Dog or human hair
- Thin strips of cloth (no wider than 1 inch, no longer than 6 inches)
- Feathers
- Dried grass or soft plant fibers
- Yarn, thread, or string (cut into 3–6 inch lengths)
- Small pieces of cotton or wool
- Dryer lint
- Pine needles
Conclusion
Building a birdhouse is a simple and enjoyable way to connect with nature while creating a welcoming space for local birds. With careful planning, proper materials, and a bit of creativity, your birdhouse will provide a safe and comfortable home for its new residents. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced woodworker, this project is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and make a lasting impact on your backyard wildlife.
Need plans for a bird house, see our BIRD HOUSE PLANS page.
