1. Choose the Right Materials:
- Use untreated wood, such as pine, cedar, or cypress, which is safe for birds.
- Avoid pressure-treated wood, plywood, or fiberboard, as these can release harmful chemicals.
- You'll also need nails or screws, a saw, a drill, and suitable perches.
2. Blue Jays:
- Blue jays prefer larger, open-style houses.
- The dimensions of the birdhouse should be approximately 12 inches wide, 12 inches tall, and 10 inches deep.
- The entrance hole should be about 1.5 inches in diameter, placed near the top of the front panel.
- Provide a sturdy perch below the entrance hole for the blue jays to land on.
3. Cardinals:
- Cardinals prefer smaller, enclosed birdhouses with a side entrance.
- The dimensions of the birdhouse should be roughly 8 inches wide, 8 inches tall, and 6 inches deep.
- The entrance hole should be about 1.5 inches in diameter and placed near the bottom of one of the side panels.
- Add a perch near the entrance hole for cardinals to rest on.
4. Construct the Birdhouse:
- Cut the pieces of wood according to the chosen dimensions.
- Assemble the birdhouse by nailing or screwing the pieces together.
- Ensure the entrance holes are positioned correctly and are smooth and free of splinters.
- Attach the perches securely to the birdhouse.
5. Finishing Touches:
- Sand the birdhouse inside and out to remove any roughness.
- If you want to decorate the birdhouse, use non-toxic paints, stains, or embellishments.
- Ensure any decorative elements don't obstruct the entrance hole.
6. Mounting the Birdhouse:
- Choose a location that is sheltered from the elements and at a suitable height for blue jays or cardinals (usually 5 to 10 feet above the ground).
- Mount the birdhouse securely to a tree, post, or building, making sure it won't sway or fall.
- Check the birdhouse regularly for signs of damage and make necessary repairs ifneeded.
7. Cleaning:
- Clean the birdhouse thoroughly at least once a year, before the nesting season.
- Remove old nesting materials, droppings, and any parasites.
- Disinfect the birdhouse with a diluted bleach solution or other suitable cleaning agents.
- Let it dry completely before placing it back in its location.
Remember to respect the natural behavior and nesting preferences of blue jays and cardinals. It may take some time for the birds to discover and use the birdhouses, but providing suitable homes can help attract these beautiful species to your backyard.