Build a Wood Duck Box

WOOD DUCK NESTING BOXES

Created with the help of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, these boxes are fairly easy to construct.  You have to keep in mind that the residents are not picky and if you make a few mistakes the ducks won’t mind.

1.           Start with a 10 foot length of 1X12 cedar or cypress.  Other materials will work, but won’t last as long.
2.           Lay out the major cuts on the board noting that the two sides have a slope cut on them, see note below.                                            

1 front,            21 inches by 11 1/4"                                           
1 back,            22 inches by 11 1/4"                                            
2 sides,            22 inches by 11 1/4"                                            
1 bottom,        10 inches by 11 1/4"
1 top,              18 inches by 11 1/4"

 The sides have to have a slope cut on them.  One end will be square and the other will be 22 inches on one leg and 21 inches on the other.
3.           Cut the entrance hole in the front panel.  The 3" X 4" oval will be 6" from the top of the box.
4.           Attach hardware cloth ladder to the inside of the front.
5.           Drill 6 - 8 1/4" drain holes in the bottom.
6.           Assemble the box using galvanized nails and glue.  Do not nail or glue the bottom panel on the front.  This is attached with wood screws to make cleaning the nest possible.
7.           Cut the access  panel out of the front panel and attach with screws after the box is mounted and filled with nesting materials.
8.           Mount the box in a predator-proof area or on a metal pole.  Avoid spots where predators can drop from above and clean out the box in one quick meal.
9.           Remember to clean out the box in late summer and then come back and watch the families that enjoy the new home you have provided for them.