May 2025 • Nebraskaland 45
H O U S E W R E N
n e s t b o x
Using cedar, or non-treated wood is preferable
Its bubbling call and fervent energy make the house wren one of
the most enjoyable backyard birds. They readily accept nest boxes
placed between 5 and 10 feet above the ground. The protection of
building eaves or a tree is attractive to wrens. Scribing a circle around a
quarter produces a perfect 1-inch entrance hole appropriate for wrens.
Wrens will use a house that is solidly supported or hung from an eye-hook and wire.
They hunt for insects in shrubs, low bushes, wood piles and brush. Highly manicured
yards are less attractive to them. Do not use a perch under the entrance hole. Sparrows
often will take up the perch and defend the hole, even though they are too large to enter.
As soon as young wrens fl edge, clean out the nesting material, and a new nest will
surely follow.
NOTE: Make the entrance hole 1"
in diameter for wrens or 1⅛" for
wrens and chickadees. A hole of
1¼" or larger will admit sparrows.
Place center of hole 1⅝" from top
of front board.
Two "pivot" nails allow side to swing out for
cleaning. Use one nail at bottom to close side.
LUMBER:
One 1" x 6" x 4'
FRONT
BACK
ROOF
SIDE
(2)
FLOOR
pivot nail
in front
nail or screw holds side closed
pivot nail
in back
waste
BACK FRONT ROOF SIDE SIDE
FLOOR
1⅛"
hole
1¼" holes
5½"
5½"
5½"
5½"
5½"
8"
8"
8¼"
11"
4"
11"
5½"
8" 8¼"
8"
8"
4"
