Bird Houses Plans For Cardinals

Crafting Bird Houses for Cardinals: A Cozy Haven for the Winter's Sweet Singers

As the winter breeze sweeps through the frosty air, the bright red cardinals, with their vibrant songs and cheerful presence, bring a touch of warmth and enchantment to the bleak landscape. Providing these feathered beauties with a cozy haven during this chilly season is a thoughtful gesture that not only benefits the cardinals but also enriches your outdoor space with a delightful avian symphony. Embark on this delightful journey of creating custom birdhouses, tailored specifically for the needs of these cheerful winter companions. ### Choosing the Perfect Location Selecting the ideal location for your cardinal birdhouse is crucial for its success. Cardinals prefer nesting sites that offer a sense of security, protection from harsh elements, and proximity to vegetation for easy access to food and water sources. 1.

Height:

Cardinals typically nest between 5 and 10 feet above the ground, offering a balance between accessibility and protection from ground predators. 2.

Shelter:

Choose a spot shielded from strong winds, rain, and direct sunlight, ensuring a comfortable environment for the nesting pair. 3.

Privacy:

Cardinals value their privacy, so avoid placing the birdhouse in an area with excessive human activity or near busy walkways. 4.

Vegetation:

Position the birdhouse near trees or shrubs that provide natural cover, allowing easy access to nesting materials and a sense of security for the birds. ### Designing Your Cardinal Birdhouse 1.

Size:

For cardinals, a birdhouse with dimensions of roughly 6 inches wide, 8 inches tall, and 8 inches deep is suitable, providing ample space for nesting and raising young. 2.

Entrance Hole:

Cardinals require an entrance hole with a diameter of about 1.5 inches, allowing easy access while preventing larger birds from entering. 3.

Ventilation:

Incorporate small ventilation holes near the roof to ensure proper air circulation, preventing condensation and maintaining a healthy environment inside the birdhouse. 4.

Drainage:

Include a drainage hole in the bottom of the birdhouse, enabling water to drain and preventing the formation of mold and mildew. 5.

Perch:

Add a small perch below the entrance hole, offering a comfortable spot for cardinals to rest and survey their surroundings. ### Selecting the Right Materials 1.

Wood:

Choose durable and weather-resistant wood, such as cedar, redwood, or cypress, which can withstand the elements and ensure longevity of the birdhouse. 2.

Avoid Treated Wood:

Opt for untreated wood to prevent potential contamination of the nesting environment with harmful chemicals. 3.

Hardware:

Use rust-resistant screws or nails to assemble the birdhouse, ensuring its sturdiness and durability. 4.

Paint or Stain:

If desired, consider using bird-friendly paint or stain to enhance the aesthetics of the birdhouse. Ensure that the paint or stain is non-toxic and safe for the birds. ### Assembling Your Cardinal Birdhouse 1.

Cut the Wood:

Precisely cut the wood according to the dimensions and design of your chosen birdhouse plan. 2.

Assemble the Frame:

Begin by assembling the frame of the birdhouse, using screws or nails to secure the pieces together. 3.

Attach the Front and Back Panels:

Attach the front and back panels to the frame, ensuring proper alignment and secure fit. 4.

Install the Roof:

Add the roof to the birdhouse, ensuring a slight overhang to protect the entrance hole from rain and snow. 5.

Add the Perch and Entrance Hole:

Install the perch below the entrance hole and drill the appropriate-sized hole for the entrance. 6.

Attach the Bottom:

Secure the bottom panel to the birdhouse, completing the structure. ### Preparing Your Birdhouse for Occupancy 1.

Clean the Birdhouse:

Before placing the birdhouse in its designated spot, thoroughly clean it to remove any dust, debris, or residue from the construction process. 2.

Add Bedding Material:

Cardinals prefer soft and insulating materials for nesting. Provide shredded paper, dried grass, or commercially available nesting material inside the birdhouse. 3.

Mount the Birdhouse:

Securely mount the birdhouse in the chosen location using a sturdy bracket or hook. Ensure it is stable and won't sway in strong winds. With these steps in mind, you can create a welcoming and functional birdhouse that will provide cardinals with a secure and comfortable home during the winter months. As you watch the cardinals flitting in and out of their cozy haven, you'll experience the joy of bringing nature closer to your home and the satisfaction of providing a refuge for these enchanting creatures.