Birdhouses
Wrens have a reputation of being picky builders, as they may build several nests before finishing one that they deem suitable. You’ll want to set your wren house in a place that receives partial sunlight. If you can provide 3-inch-long twigs nearby, the wrens will probably use them in the construction of their nests. Mount the nest box 6 to 10 feet off the ground. Near a tree, fencerow, or shrub is best. Be sure to use some type of predator guard to keep squirrels, snakes, raccoons, and other creatures from harming the nestlings.
1" × 6" × 4' long cedar
1-5/8" rust-resistant screws
Two exterior-coated nails
Two small 13/16" screw eyes
3" piece of bendable wire
Instructions
Mark and cut boards to the following dimensions:
Front: 5-1/2" × 8"
2 sides: 4" × 5-1/4"
Back: 5-1/2" × 8"
Floor: 4" × 4"
Roof: 4-1/2" × 7-3/4"
Roof: 5-1/4" × 7-3/4"
On the front piece, mark the center of the top end at 2-3/4". Measure and mark points 5-1/4" from the bottom on both edges. With a ruler, trace the line from the top center point to the side measurement on each edge. Cut on the lines to form a 45-degree angle at the peak, as shown in the diagram.
Repeat step 2 on the back panel.
On the front piece, mark a point 2-1/2" down from the peak, centered right to left. Cut a 1-1/4" diameter entry hole, using the mark as the center of the circle.
Drill two 1/4" ventilation holes 1" from the top in each side panel.
Position the left side against the back panel with the bottom edges flush against each other. Along the back drill pilot holes 3/8" in from the edge and insert screws to secure the side to the back.
Drill four drainage holes through the floor. Position the floor against the back and side pieces as shown in the diagram. Drill pilot holes and secure the floor with screws.
Position the front panel against the floor and side, making sure the bottom edges are flush and the front and back are even. Drill pilot holes through the front panel and insert screws.
Pre-drill a hole and insert one screw eye in the bottom of the unattached side.
Position the side carefully in place and mark on the front and back panels where the pivot nails will be inserted, about 1" down from the top of the side and 3/8" in from the edge (as shown in the diagram). If using six-penny nails, drill 1/8" holes and insert the nails. You will be able to swing the door open and closed by holding onto the screw eye.
Mark where the second screw eye will be inserted in the floor piece as close to the side screw eye as possible. Drill a pilot hole and insert the second screw eye. Using the flexible wire, secure the two eyes together.
Assemble the roof as shown in the diagram, with the wider piece extending 3/4" past the peak and the narrower 4-1/2" piece at a right angle and flush against the wider one.
Set the roof in place with a 1-3/4" overhang in the front and a 1/2" overhang in the back. Mark where the screws will be inserted. Drill pilot holes and secure the roof with screws.
