Introduction: Red-Headed Woodpecker Nesting Box
This nesting box is an eco friendly, easy-to-make, and useful item that will prevent red-headed woodpeckers from pecking at your siding while providing them a home for their eggs at the same time. Red-headed woodpeckers are nearly endangered and they live in the Midwestern and Eastern part of the United States. This woodpecker nesting box will benefit both our species. The nesting box is also a safer alternative to some harmful solutions that other people have tried including netting and shooting at the birds. This solution was created by the RoboKnights, which is a First Lego League Team . First Lego League is an international robotics competition organized for the elementary and middle school students. In addition to the robotic aspect, they have a research project which related to their theme which is Animal Allies for the 2016-17 year. We hope you enjoy our project!
Step 1: Use a Saw or Hammer and Wedge to Break Log Directly in Half.
It is easier to use the hammer and wedge but a saw will work just as well.
Step 2: Use a Hammer or Chisel to Hollow Out the Inside
You can also apply blue paint as we did and use that as a guide so you can chisel correctly. The entrance does not need to be too large but large enough for the woodpecker.
Step 3: Reconnect the Two Halves With Two or Three Hinges
The hinges are there so you can reuse your box and empty it out.
Step 4: Attach One Latch Near the Top and Another Near the Bottom of the Split.
These are so your box stays closed near nesting season.
Step 5: Add Two Hooks on the Top to Hang Your Nesting Box From.
You can hang your nesting box anywhere you would like to but it must be accessible for the woodpeckers.
Step 6: Fill the Inside With Wood Shavings.
The woodpeckers like to excavate their nest before laying their eggs so this will ensure that the woodpeckers have a chance to do so.
Step 7: Hang It Up Outside and Enjoy Your New Woodpecker Nesting Box.
We hope you enjoy our product! Thank you!