Woodpecker Bird House : Use a Split Log as a Woodpecker Home

Use a split log to build a woodpecker home.

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Woodpecker bird House printable plans

Woodpeckers do not build nests as most birds do, but they excavate a deep cavity in some dead tree leaving a quantity of chips at the bottom on which the eggs are laid. These rustic woodpecker bird house plans don’t require advanced woodworking skills – you get to practice without worrying about the quality of your workmanship!

This woodpecker bird house is made of a section of a tree split or sawn in half. The nest cavity is hollowed out and then fastened together again with screws. The top should be covered with a board or piece of tin to keep out rain. Use galvanized or stainless marine screws, so the fasteners don’t rust. You’ll want to be able to open, clean out and replace the wood shavings when your tenants move out. 

Once you’ve completed your hand-hewn woodpecker bird house, fill the bottom with some wood shavings. Don’t use sawdust, as it can absorb moisture and compact. Position the log 6 to 20 feet up on a tree or post, as this is the height at which these birds are most comfortable.