Video: How to build a bird box

Have you ever wondered how you can attract birds into your garden?

The solution couldn’t be simpler. Immerse yourself in nature and give local wildlife a happy home by building and installing a wooden bird box. Many species of bird could use a helping hand with suitable shelter in the modern world, so this is a great way to support our avian friends – and it might be easier than you think!

Use the handy step-by-step video or follow our instructions below to build your own bird box. Don’t forget to share your creations with us on social media – you can find us on Facebook and Instagram.

You will need:

• A plank of wood 15cm x 1.4m long x 1.5-1.8cm thick (ensure the wood is untreated)
• Tape measure
• Pencil
• Saw
• Screws or nails
• Drill or hammer
• Waterproof rubber or plastic sheet
• A hole saw
• A responsible adult to help with sharp objects and power tools

• Top tips for bird nesting success:

1. When is the best time to install a bird box? You can install your bird box at any time of year, but nesting season in the UK runs from February to August, with the busiest periods being from March to July.
2. Where should I put my bird box? Your bird box should be fixed at least 3 metres from the ground to protect against predators. Position the box so that it is facing between north and east to avoid it getting too hot. Avoid placing above a busy area or in direct sunlight.
3. What’s the best material to make a bird box? We recommend using wood that’s around 15mm thick for good insulation and a strong structure. You can use exterior plywood, a softwood such as pine, or for a longer lasting bird box use a hardwood like oak or beech. Just be sure that the wood is untreated; we don’t want to expose our new residents to any nasty chemicals. Always buy wood that is FSC certified.
4. Should I put hay inside my bird box? No, birds are incredibly resourceful and will make your bird box a home themselves with the materials they find. But you can give them a helping hand by leaving leaf litter, moss and even pet hair nearby.
5. When should I clean out my bird box? Old nests should be removed and bird boxes cleaned from September onwards. Ensure your birds have moved on before bringing the bird box down. Remove all contents and use boiling water to kill any parasites that may infect future chicks.

We would love to see how you make your birdboxes – you can tag us on Instagram or send us a message on Facebook. In the meantime, if you haven’t already, why not subscribe to our monthly newsletter? You’ll be the first to know about our latest blogs, podcasts, videos and events.

Sign up to our newsletter