The wood duck is a colorful bird that will take a box of the correct dimensions if placed in the right location.Early in this century, wood duck populations were in decline, with a little time and effort, and some simple woodworking tools, you can help in the comeback of this fine bird.
Step 1: Gather materials and tools after reviewing the plan.
You can make one nest box from a long board.The plan shows how to divide the wood.cedar is a weather resistant wood.
Step 2: The design needs to be laid out.
The pieces are drawn onto the wood with a pencil.Measure twice, cut once.
Step 3: Materials should be cut to size.
The back edge of the roof should be cut with a saw that is adjusted to a 20 degree angle so that it fits in the box.The front board is too long in the layout.The roof will fit flush with the box if the saw is at a 20 degree angle.You should end up with a back, two sides, front, floor, and roof after cutting the wood.
Step 4: To check the dimensions, dry fit the parts together.
It's important to fit the parts together before drilling and fastening, so don't use screws yet.It's time to adjust if anything requires it.
Step 5: You can create an entrance hole.
The easiest way to assemble the box is to drill the hole.A hole of about three feet high by four feet wide will admit ducks, but exclude raccoons.A hole of these dimensions can be created with a hole saw and two holes.The center of the hole is above the base.If the hole is drilled from both sides, it will be cleaner.You can use a rasp or other tool to smooth out the opening.
Step 6: It's possible to create traction.
The baby ducks will need a rough surface to grasp when leaving the nest, and the mother duck will appreciate a rougher surface when she lands.Setting a saw to make shallow Kerf cuts on both the interior and exterior of the front part can be accomplished by attaching screen or mesh.
Step 7: Start making something.
Assembly can begin with parts prepared.Ring-shanked nails can be used, but exterior deck screws create a more durable design that can hold up for several years.Pre-drilling the holes is important to avoid splitting the wood.
Step 8: Put a deck screw after the hole is drilled.
It's good to have two drills, one for the hole and the other to drive the screws.
Step 9: It's possible to create drainage.
Remove the bottom from the box base in order to avoid rot.The base has holes cut off the corners for drainage and ventilation.
Step 10: An access point is needed.
One of the side parts needs to be cut so that it can be used to clean out old material.It is cheaper to use nails near the top of the opening board as a pivot for the door instead of using hinges.The board in this example was cut at a 20 degree angle to prevent water from leaking into the box.
Step 11: To secure the cleaning door, loop together two screws with wire.
Raccoons are capable of working a simple latch.The back of the lid can be held in place with the help of a strip on it.
Step 12: The wood duck box needs to be placed outside.
If you're happy with it, place it in a location that will attract the local wood ducks.The best place to put a wood duck nest box is on a wooden post or metal pole with predator guards.The boxes should be at least 5 feet above the water's surface.It is possible to place boxes up to one-half mile from water in trees or on a post at least 8 feet high.They should be at least 100 feet from the edge of the water.Place the box near suitable brood habitat, near shallow, fertile wetlands with thick cover, and where there is a plentiful supply of invertebrates for eating.Don't forget to add a layer of wood shavings to the material.You can find cedar wood chip bedding in pet stores.