Choosing Materials
Use untreated wood such as pine, cedar, or cypress, which is safe for birds. Avoid pressure-treated wood, plywood, or fiberboard due to potential chemical hazards. You will also need nails or screws, a saw, a drill, and suitable perches.
Blue Jay Birdhouse
Blue jays prefer larger, open-style houses. Recommended dimensions are approximately 12 inches wide, 12 inches tall, and 10 inches deep. The entrance hole should be about 1.5 inches in diameter and placed near the top of the front panel. Include a sturdy perch below the entrance.
Cardinal Birdhouse
Cardinals prefer smaller, enclosed houses with a side entrance. Dimensions 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 side panel. Add a perch near the entrance.
Construction and Mounting
Cut wood to the chosen dimensions and assemble securely. Ensure entrance holes are smooth and free of splinters. Mount the birdhouse 5 to 10 feet above the ground in a sheltered location, attached firmly to a tree, post, or building.
Finishing and Maintenance
Sand the birdhouse inside and out. If decorating, use non-toxic paints or stains that do not block the entrance. Clean the birdhouse thoroughly at least once a year before nesting season, removing old nesting material and disinfecting with a diluted bleach solution.
It may take time for blue jays and cardinals to discover and use the houses, but providing suitable homes can attract these beautiful species to your backyard.