How to Build a Kestrel Box

The American Kestrel is the United States' smallest falcon. At one time this bird, which is about the size of a blue jay, was known as the "sparrow hawk." Kestrels are monogamous, territorial, "cavity nesters." According to Audubon International, the continuing development of the American landscape, forces kestrels to compete with other cavity nesters for dwindling nesting sites. Although not yet endangered, the American kestrel population decreased at the end of the 20th century, leading to a need for conservation. Several organizations are currently studying he migratory habits of the American kestrel and their nesting box successes and failures.

Things You'll Need

  • 1, 1-by-10-inch-by-8-foot board
  • 2, 2-inch hinges
  • 1, 2-inch spring-loaded safety hook
  • 22, 1/2-inch wood screws
  • Jigsaw
  • Screwdriver
  • Drill with 1/4-inch bit
  • Measuring tape
  • Pencil or marker
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure and mark the board into five sections as follows: 26 inches (back), 32 inches (two sides), 15 inches (front), 13 inches (top), and 7 3/4 inches (bottom). You will be left with several inches of waste lumber.

    • 2

      Use the jigsaw to cut all sections. Put all but the 32-inch section aside.

    • 3

      Measure and mark the 32-inch section into two equal pieces, each piece having one 15-inch side and a 17-inch side. Cut on the diagonal line separating the pieces.

    • 4

      Measure and mark a line 11 1/2-inches long, starting at one of the narrow ends of the 15-inch board. Cut a hole 3 inches in diameter at the end of this line. This hole is the entrance at the front of the nest box.

    • 5

      Drill two 1/4-inch guide holes close to the top (slanted edge) of each of the two side pieces of board.

    • 6

      Drill four 1/4-inch drainage holes in the 7 3/4-inch bottom piece. Place one hole at each corner.

    • 7

      Drill four 1/4-inch drainage holes in the 7 3/4-inch bottom piece. Place one hole at each corner.

    • 8

      Attach the hardware. The two hinges should attach the rear of the nest box top to the back piece of board. Attach the latch at the front of the nest box, lining it up with the corresponding position on the nest box top.

    • 9

      Line the nest box bottom with wood shavings.