If you build it, they will come.

Build the right box.

Building the right nest box for birds is crucial for their breeding success and survival. Different species of birds have specific requirements for their nesting sites, such as the size and shape of the entrance hole, the depth of the nesting cavity, and the placement and orientation of the box. We recommend building a top opening nest box. You’ll find plans for this type of nest box below.

Providing a suitable nest box can increase the availability of nesting sites in areas where natural cavities may be lacking, and can help prevent competition for limited nesting sites. Moreover, a well-built and maintained nest box can protect birds from predators and harsh weather conditions. By building the right nest box, you can help support local bird populations and contribute to their conservation efforts.

Nest Box Designs

  • Top / Front Opening - 'BEST' / SAFEST

    PRO -Top opening is the ONLY SAFE nest box for monitoring and banding.

    Front opening as pictured above is probably the easiest box to clean out each fall. Pull the contents forward, scrape the bottom, back, sides and swivel front with a hooked paint scraper and wire brush.

    CON - do NOT OPEN FRONT, except for fall clean-out.

  • Top / Loose Bottom Opening - 'BEST' / SAFEST

    PRO -Top opening is the ONLY SAFE nest box for monitoring and banding.

    It minimizes the chance of premature fledging and makes it easy to monitor (count adults, eggs and nestling).

    CON - Top opening without a removable bottom makes cleaning quite challenging.

    Fall clean-out? Push the bottom up / shove the contents out the top. Beware… where you’re standing!! The wind can blow a puff of vapourized bird poop and dander into your face,

  • Side Opening Only - (SUCK for monitoring)

    CON - Side and Front opening, nest boxes may contribute to premature fledgling. Nestlings get quite ‘jumpy’ and vocal as they get close to fledging. Should you open a side or front opening box during this ‘dangerous’ period the nestlings may flutter to the ground and disappear into the grass - a death sentence.

    PRO - Side opening enables easy access. Unfortunately, eggs and chicks, are often impossible to see without disturbing the nest.

Build or Buy Nest Boxes

A few of our members are making and selling nest boxes sized for Mountain Bluebirds.