Blue Jay Bird House Plans: A Comprehensive Guide for Bird Enthusiasts

Introduction Blue jays are beautiful and vocal birds that make a welcome addition to any backyard. If you're looking to attract these stunning birds to your garden, building a blue jay birdhouse is a great project. This comprehensive guide provides detailed plans and instructions for building a blue jay birdhouse, ensuring you create a welcoming and suitable home for these feathered friends. Step 1: Choosing the Right Location Selecting the right location for your blue jay birdhouse is crucial for its success. Ensure that the spot offers: - A quiet and sheltered area away from human activity and potential predators. - Protection from the elements, including direct sunlight, strong winds, rain, and snow. - A clear flight path to and from the birdhouse, free of obstructions like branches or wires. - A height of at least 10 feet above the ground to discourage predators. Step 2: Gathering Materials and Tools To build your blue jay birdhouse, you'll need the following materials and tools: - Materials: - 1x6 untreated pine boards (or similar weather-resistant wood) - 1-inch wood screws - Non-toxic wood glue - Waterproof roofing material (asphalt shingles, cedar shakes, etc.) - 1-inch PVC pipe (optional) - Wire or string (optional) - Tools: - Saw - Drill - Hammer - Tape measure - Level - Safety glasses - Gloves Step 3: Building the Birdhouse 1. Cut the Wood: - Cut the 1x6 boards according to the following dimensions: - Front and back panels: 12 inches x 6 inches - Side panels: 12 inches x 4 inches - Roof panels: 10 inches x 6 inches - Entrance hole: 2-inch diameter hole, centered 6 inches from the top of the front panel 2. Assemble the Birdhouse: - Align the front and back panels with the side panels, forming a rectangular box. - Join the panels using wood screws and non-toxic wood glue. - Attach the roof panels to the top of the birdhouse, ensuring they overlap slightly. - Secure the roof panels with screws and glue. 3. Add Entrance Hole and Predator Guard: - Install the entrance hole on the front panel using a 2-inch hole saw or drill bit. - Consider adding a predator guard (PVC pipe or wire) around the entrance hole to deter predators. 4. Install Ventilation Holes: - Drill several small ventilation holes near the top of the birdhouse to ensure proper airflow. 5. Waterproof the Birdhouse: - Cover the roof of the birdhouse with waterproof roofing material (shingles or shakes). - Ensure the roofing material extends beyond the edges of the roof to protect against water damage. Step 4: Installing the Birdhouse 1. Choose a Mounting Location: - Select a tree or pole at least 10 feet above the ground, away from human activity and potential predators. 2. Install the Mounting Bracket: - Attach a mounting bracket (purchased or handmade) to the tree or pole. - Ensure the bracket is sturdy and can support the weight of the birdhouse. 3. Hang the Birdhouse: - Hang the birdhouse from the mounting bracket using wire or string. - Adjust the height of the birdhouse so that the entrance hole is approximately 5-6 feet above the ground. Step 5: Maintaining the Birdhouse - Regularly inspect the birdhouse for signs of damage or wear and make necessary repairs. - Clean the birdhouse once a year by removing old nesting material and disinfecting the interior. - Keep the area around the birdhouse free of debris and potential hazards. Conclusion Building a blue jay birdhouse is a rewarding experience that can bring joy to your backyard. By following these detailed plans and instructions, you can create a safe and inviting home for these beautiful birds. Remember to choose the right location, use appropriate materials, and maintain the birdhouse regularly to ensure its long-lasting use. Enjoy the beauty and songs of blue jays in your garden as they make your birdhouse their home.