The BENBOX is an eastern bluebird nest box that features a detachable nest cavity. The detachable cavity slides in and out on rails like a drawer. A 1 1/4” galvanized joist hanger nail on the right side serves as a locking pin. A double roof is employed to reduce radiant heat absorption and to prolong the useful life of the nest box. The inner roof is made of 3/4” thick wood and the outer roof is made of cement fiber (James Hardie cedarmill siding). The outer roof is secured to the inner roof with polyurethane construction adhesive. A 15 ga. plate steel hole guard protects the entrance hole from enlargement by woodpeckers and gnawing varmints. “Flow through” ventilation is provided by including a rear horizontal slot vent at the same level as the entrance hole. Good drainage is provided through floor corner cuts and a recessed center drain hole. Mounting is facilitated by providing a 15/16” diameter hole in the center of the rear 2 X 4 cross member. A 1/4” diameter bolt + wing nut can be used to secure the mounting pole in place.
BENBOX front view
BENBOX side view
BENBOX open view
BENBOX detachable nesting cavity showing horizontal slot vent
If you would like the bill-of-materials and plans for the BENBOX eastern bluebird nest box, send me an Email at Bluebird Shepherd.
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Bluebird Shepherd
Posted by helpforbluebirds 
