Nest Boxes For Wood Ducks

Produced in association with the National Audubon Society, Audubon Birdhouse Book explains how to build and place safe, species-appropriate bird homes for more than 20 classic North American species, from wrens to raptors. A visit to almost any home or garden center presents birders with numerous cute and colorful contraptions that are sold as bird homes. But the fact is, many of these products provide anything but a safe refuge for your feathered friends. Each of the easy-to-build boxes and shelves within is accompanied by cut lists, specially created line diagrams, and step-by-step photography, making the projects accessible to those with even the most rudimentary woodworking skills. In addition, this practical and beautifully presented guide is packed with color photography and profiles and range maps for the bird species covered—including titmice, chickadees, nuthatches, phoebes, swallows, waterfowl, and even kestrels and owls—to help the reader properly place and maintain the homes to attract birds. And because these projects are the product of years of experience and field-testing, you can be sure you’re getting the best advice regarding proper design, safe construction materials, and correct home placement to mitigate exposure to elements, pests, and predators. Finally, beyond the birdhouses, you’ll find out how you can contribute to the larger birding community and even enhance your birding experience with the aid of new technologies. Build an Audubon-approved home for these species: Bewick’s, Carolina, or House Wren; Prothonotary Warbler; Eastern, Western, or Mountain Bluebird; Ash-throated or Great Crested Flycatcher; Tree Swallow or Violet-green Swallow; Juniper, Oak, Black-crested, or Tufted Titmouse; Barred Owl; Eastern or Western Screech-owl; Barn Owl; Northern Flicker; American Kestrel; Black-capped, Carolina, or Mountain Chickadee; Wood Duck; Hooded Merganser; Purple Martin; Mourning Dove; Barn Swallow; American Robin; House Finch; and Eastern or Say’s Phoebe.

A management techniques report on wood duck nest boxes is provided as Section 5.1.2 of the US Army Corps of Engineers Wildlife Resources Management Manual. The report was prepared as a guide to assist Corps biologists and resource managers in developing and implementing nest box programs for wood ducks (Aix sponsa) on project lands. Topics covered include assessment of broad habitat, nest box design and construction, placement and installation, personnel and costs, and conditions and limitations. One of the most popular and effective management techniques for wood ducks is the provision of artificial nesting structures. Where natural cavities are limited, increases in local wood duck populations may be expected when nest boxes are properly constructed, located, and protected from predators. Detailed descriptions are provided in this report for two basic nest box types, the wooden box and vertical metal box; other acceptable designs are mentioned with their respective advantages listed. A variety of predator guards and supports are described and illustrated. Recommendations are given for the proper placement, installation, and maintenance of wood duck nesting structures.

Much of Australia's wildlife will not survive without hollows for nesting. The complete practical guide with extensive plans. The book is ideal for your garden! With some basic carpentry skills you can build a nest box, and be rewarded by the pleasure of watching the activities of the wildlife that take up residence. Nest boxes are a great idea since they: attract wildlife back into gardens thereby introducing breeding and other enriching activities into our daily lives; may assist populations of endangered species; make an unusual gift for a nature loving friend; provide pleasure for nursing home residents; provide excellent school projects -- especially for woodwork classes. Stacey and Alan Franks have spent years researching the needs and habits of hollow-dependent fauna. The practical advice they give is based on personal observation and experience, as well as information they have gathered from other wildlife experts.