Barred Owl Birdhouse Plans

Barred Owl Birdhouse Plans: A Comprehensive Guide for Bird Lovers

### Introduction The barred owl (Strix varia) is one of North America's most recognizable owls. Its distinct call, large, round eyes, and striking plumage make it a popular bird among birders and nature enthusiasts. If you want to attract barred owls to your backyard, providing them with a suitable nesting site is a great way to do it. Building a barred owl birdhouse is relatively easy, and with careful planning and execution, you can create a beautiful and functional home for these magnificent birds. ### Materials and Tools To build a barred owl birdhouse, you will need the following materials and tools: - 1-inch pine boards or plywood - 2-inch exterior screws - Galvanized nails - Wood glue - Saw - Hammer - Drill - Measuring tape - Level - Pencil - Safety glasses - Dust mask ### Step-by-Step Instructions 1.

Cut the Pieces

- Cut the pine boards or plywood according to the following dimensions: - Front and back panels: 18 inches by 12 inches - Sides: 12 inches by 12 inches - Bottom: 12 inches by 6 inches - Roof: Two pieces, each measuring 14 inches by 12 inches 2.

Assemble the Box

- Apply wood glue to the edges of the front and back panels. - Attach the sides to the front and back panels using 2-inch exterior screws. - Attach the bottom to the box using galvanized nails. - Make sure the box is square and level. 3.

Cut the Entrance Hole

- Measure and mark a 6-inch diameter circle on the front panel, 8 inches from the bottom. - Cut the entrance hole using a saw. - Sand the edges of the entrance hole until they are smooth. 4.

Attach the Roof

- Apply wood glue to the top edges of the box. - Attach the roof pieces to the box using 2-inch exterior screws. - Make sure the roof is flush with the top edges of the box. 5.

Add Perches

- Cut two perches, each measuring 6 inches long and 1 inch in diameter. - Attach the perches to the front and back panels of the birdhouse, 4 inches below the entrance hole. - Make sure the perches are parallel to each other.
### Placement and Maintenance Once you have built your barred owl birdhouse, choose a suitable location for it. Here are some things to keep in mind: -

Height:

Place the birdhouse between 10 and 20 feet above the ground. -

Location:

Hang the birdhouse in a tree or on a pole in a secluded area away from human activity. -

Direction:

Face the entrance hole away from the prevailing wind. To ensure that barred owls continue to use your birdhouse, it's important to maintain it regularly. Here are some tips: -

Clean the birdhouse once a year.

Remove any nesting material and debris from the birdhouse. -

Inspect the birdhouse for damage.

Repair any cracks or holes that may have developed. -

Repaint the birdhouse every few years.

This will help to protect it from the elements. ### Conclusion Building a barred owl birdhouse is a rewarding experience that can provide a safe and comfortable home for these beautiful birds. By following the step-by-step instructions provided in this article, you can create a birdhouse that will attract barred owls to your backyard for years to come. Remember to choose a suitable location for the birdhouse and maintain it regularly to ensure that it remains a safe and welcoming home for barred owls.