How to Build a Cardinal Bird House: A Comprehensive Guide

In this guide, we will walk you through the process of building a cardinal bird house from start to finish. Building a cardinal bird house can be a rewarding project that not only provides a safe and comfortable home for these beautiful birds but also adds a touch of nature to your backyard. Cardinals are known for their vibrant red plumage and melodic songs, making them a favorite among birdwatchers.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following materials:

• Wood: Use untreated cedar or redwood for durability.
• Saw: A circular saw or handsaw will work.
• Drill: For making holes and attaching pieces.
• Wood Screws: To secure the pieces together.
• Wood Glue: For extra reinforcement.
• Hinges: For easy access for cleaning.
• Outdoor Paint: To protect the wood from the elements.
• Roofing Material: Such as asphalt shingles or metal.

Steps to Build a Cardinal Bird House

Step 1: Planning and Design

Start by deciding on the size and design of your birdhouse. A good cardinal bird house should have a floor size of about 7×7 inches and a height of around 8-10 inches. It should also have a sloping roof to prevent water from collecting on top.

Step 2: Cutting the Wood

Using your saw, cut the wood into the following pieces:

• Two side panels (7×10 inches)
• Front and back panels (7×7 inches)
• Floor panel (7×7 inches)
• Roof panels (7×7 inches, cut diagonally to form a triangle)

Step 3: Assembling the Bird House

• Attach the front and back panels to the side panels using wood screws and glue.
• Attach the floor panel to the bottom of the birdhouse.
• Attach the roof panels to the top of the birdhouse, overlapping them slightly to create a peak.
• Add hinges to one side of the roof for easy access to the inside of the birdhouse.

Step 4: Adding Finishing Touches

• Paint the birdhouse with outdoor paint in a color of your choice.
• Attach roofing material to the top of the roof panels for added protection.
• Install a perch below the entrance hole to give the cardinals a place to land.

Step 5: Placing the Bird House

• Mount the birdhouse on a sturdy pole or hang it from a tree branch.
• Ensure that the entrance hole is facing away from prevailing winds and predators.

By following these steps, you can create a beautiful and functional birdhouse that will attract cardinals to your yard. Building a cardinal bird house is a fun and rewarding project that can be enjoyed by bird lovers of all ages.