Simple Purple Martin House Plans

Simple Purple Martin House Plans: A Comprehensive Guide to Building a Purple Martin Haven

Beautify your outdoor space and support the conservation of purple martins with custom-built housing options. This comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions, diagrams, and helpful tips for creating simple yet effective purple martin house plans. ### 1. Choosing the Right Location Selecting the ideal location is crucial for the health and safety of purple martins. Consider these factors: *

Sunlight:

Purple martins prefer nesting sites that receive direct sunlight for at least 6 hours a day. *

Openness:

Avoid placing the house near trees or buildings that may obstruct the birds' flight path. *

Height:

Mount the house at a height of 12-20 feet above the ground to protect the birds from predators. *

Wind Protection:

Choose a spot that is sheltered from strong winds, as purple martins are susceptible to windchill. ### 2. Selecting the Right House Type Purple martin houses come in various shapes and sizes. Consider the following types: *

Gourd-Shaped Houses:

These traditional houses are popular among purple martins and provide a cozy and enclosed nesting space. *

Compartment Houses:

Compartment houses offer individual nesting compartments, making them ideal for multiple pairs of martins. *

Open-Air Houses:

Open-air houses provide a more natural nesting environment and are preferred by some purple martins. ### 3. Gathering Necessary Materials Before you begin construction, gather the following materials: * Exterior-grade plywood (1/2 inch thick) * 1x4 pine boards * 2-inch exterior screws * Wood glue * Waterproof paint (white or light-colored) * Aluminum flashing * Heavy-duty wire or chain for hanging ### 4. Step-by-Step Construction Guide

Step 1: Cut the Plywood

* Cut the plywood into the following pieces: * 4 pieces (12 inches x 12 inches) for the house walls * 2 pieces (12 inches x 6 inches) for the house ends * 1 piece (12 inches x 24 inches) for the roof * 1 piece (12 inches x 10 inches) for the floor

Step 2: Assemble the House Walls

* Apply wood glue to the edges of the plywood pieces. * Join the pieces together to form a box shape. * Secure the joints with 2-inch exterior screws.

Step 3: Attach the House Ends

* Attach the house ends to the front and back of the house. * Align the edges of the plywood pieces and secure them with 2-inch exterior screws.

Step 4: Attach the Floor

* Center the floor piece inside the house. * Attach it to the house walls using 2-inch exterior screws.

Step 5: Construct the Roof

* Cut the roof piece in half lengthwise. * Attach the roof halves to the top of the house, forming a gable roof. * Secure the roof with 2-inch exterior screws.

Step 6: Install Aluminum Flashing

* Cut the aluminum flashing into strips that are 3 inches wide. * Wrap the flashing around the edges of the roof and secure it with staples. * This will help prevent water from leaking into the house.

Step 7: Add Ventilation Holes

* Use a drill to create ventilation holes in the front and back of the house. * Make sure the holes are large enough to allow for air circulation but small enough to prevent birds from entering.

Step 8: Paint the House

* Use waterproof paint to paint the exterior of the house. * Choose a light-colored paint, as dark colors absorb heat and can make the house too hot for purple martins.

Step 9: Hang the House

* Choose a strong tree branch or metal pole to hang the house from. * Attach a heavy-duty wire or chain to the top of the house. * Hang the house 12-20 feet above the ground. ### 5. Tips for Success * Place the house in an area that is free from predators, such as cats and snakes. * Clean the house regularly to remove any debris or nesting material. * Attract purple martins by playing martin calls near the house. * Be patient, as it may take some time for purple martins to discover and occupy the house. Building a simple purple martin house is a rewarding experience that can help you attract these beautiful birds to your backyard. With careful planning and construction, you can provide purple martins with a safe and comfortable nesting site that they will enjoy for years to come.