Bird House Plans For Cardinals

Bird House Plans for Cardinals: A Detailed Guide for Beginners

### Introduction: Cardinals, known for their vibrant red plumage and cheerful songs, are a common sight in backyards and gardens. These beautiful birds are a joy to watch, and building a birdhouse specifically designed for cardinals is a rewarding project that can attract these charming creatures to your outdoor space. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide detailed birdhouse plans for cardinals, ensuring you have everything you need to create a cozy and inviting home for these beloved birds. ## Step 1: Gather Materials Before starting the construction process, it's essential to gather all the necessary materials. Here's a list of what you'll need: * 1x6 pine boards (10 pieces) * 1x2 pine boards (2 pieces) * ¾-inch plywood (1 piece) * 1¼-inch wood screws * 1½-inch wood screws * Wood glue * Sandpaper * Paint or stain (optional) * Birdhouse entrance hole saw (1½-inch diameter) * Pencil * Measuring tape * Safety goggles * Gloves ## Step 2: Cut the Wood Once you have all the materials, it's time to cut the wood according to the following measurements: * Front and Back Panels: Cut two pieces of 1x6 pine board to 12 inches in length. * Side Panels: Cut two pieces of 1x6 pine board to 9 inches in length. * Roof Panels: Cut two pieces of 1x6 pine board to 10 inches in length. * Base: Cut a piece of ¾-inch plywood to 8 inches by 8 inches. * Perches: Cut two pieces of 1x2 pine board to 4 inches in length. ## Step 3: Assemble the Birdhouse Now that you have all the pieces cut, it's time to assemble the birdhouse: 1.

Base

: Start by attaching the base to the front and back panels using 1¼-inch wood screws. Ensure the base is centered and evenly spaced. 2.

Side Panels

: Next, attach the side panels to the front and back panels using 1¼-inch wood screws. Make sure the side panels are flush with the top and bottom edges of the front and back panels. 3.

Roof Panels

: Attach the roof panels to the side panels using 1¼-inch wood screws. Overlap the roof panels slightly to create a sloped roof. 4.

Perches

: Attach the perches below the entrance hole on the front panel using 1½-inch wood screws. Position the perches about 1 inch below the hole. ## Step 4: Entrance Hole and Drainage 1.

Entrance Hole

: Using the birdhouse entrance hole saw, drill a 1½-inch diameter hole in the front panel, approximately 2 inches below the roof peak. 2.

Drainage Holes

: Drill small drainage holes in the bottom of the birdhouse to allow water to drain out. ## Step 5: Sand and Finish 1.

Sand

: Use sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges on the birdhouse. 2.

Finish

: If desired, you can paint or stain the birdhouse to match your outdoor décor. ## Step 6: Mount the Birdhouse Choose a suitable location for your birdhouse, such as a tree or a post, and ensure it's away from direct sunlight and strong winds. Mount the birdhouse securely using appropriate hardware. ### Additional Tips: * To attract cardinals to your birdhouse, place it in a quiet area with plenty of trees and shrubs where they can find food and shelter. * Cardinals prefer natural nesting materials, so you can add a small amount of straw, twigs, or feathers to the bottom of the birdhouse. * Clean the birdhouse regularly to maintain a healthy environment for the birds. Building a birdhouse for cardinals is a fulfilling project that can bring joy and beauty to your outdoor space. By following these detailed plans, you can create a welcoming home for these charming birds and enjoy their presence in your backyard or garden.