If you're an avid birdwatcher, chances are that you'd like to build your own multi-unit bird house. Whether you want to make it as large as the entire backyard or just a simple two-unit box, there are plenty of multi-unit bird house plans and designs available for you to choose from. Many of these designs use pieces of wood or PVC pipes to construct the house, so you will get a lot of use out of it for several years. Plus, they are typically fairly simple to make, so even the beginning DIYer can construct a beautiful bird house they'll be proud of.Multi Unit Bird House Plans & Designs
Multi Unit Bird House Plans & Designs
One of the most popular multi-unit bird house plans is the multi-house bird house plan. This plan calls for constructing a house from at least two birdhouses that are connected each other in some way. This could include using a platform, a window between the houses, or simply connecting them together without any gaps in the seams. This plan is great for those that have a large backyard as the construction requires larger pieces of wood and PVC piping. It's also a great project for the advanced DIYer, as the construction requires a high level of precision, craftsmanship, and carpentry skills.Multi-House Bird House Plans
Multi-House Bird House Plans
Another option for those looking to build a multi-unit bird house is the multi-chamber and multi-house birdhouse plans. This type of birdhouse is ideal for those with a smaller backyard as it calls for less material. It consists of constructing separate sections for each birdhouse, allowing the birds to move freely between the chambers. This is a great way to increase the chances of attracting birds into the backyard as it provides them with more room and nesting spots.Multi-Chamber and Multi-House Birdhouse Plans
Multi-Chamber and Multi-House Birdhouse Plans
If you're looking for some great multi-unit bird house plans, one of the best places to check is Woodworker's Journal. There, you will find a free multi-unit bird house plan from woodworker's journal. This plan provides a detailed description of how to construct the birdhouse with precut and predrilled pieces. It also includes a list of materials and instructions, so you can easily follow along with the construction. Plus, it is designed for smaller birdhouses, so it can be used with a smaller backyard space.Free Multi-Unit Bird House Plan from Woodworker's Journal
Free Multi-Unit Bird House Plan from Woodworker's Journal
For those looking for a simpler option, there are also some simple multi-unit bird house plans available. These plans typically require less time and materials, as they are usually just a few basic pieces that can be easily put together. These plans usually provide plenty of room for two or three birds without taking up too much space in the yard. Plus, they are more cost-effective than some of the more intricate options.Simple Multi-Unit Bird House Plans
Simple Multi-Unit Bird House Plans
For those of you looking for a unique birdhouse design, consider the magpie multi-unit bird house plan. This plan calls for constructing a birdhouse made of several chambers that are attached together. This plan is great for the outdoorsman or the avid birdwatcher, as it adds a very rustic feel to the backyard. Plus, it can house multiple birds, which can be great for attracting different species of birds to your home.Magpie Multi-unit Bird House Plan
Magpie Multi-unit Bird House Plan
For those that have a larger backyard space, consider going with the multi-unit "duplex" wren bird house plans. This plan calls for constructing two dwellings attached to one another, giving the birds more room to nest. Plus, the two dwellings are designed in such a way that they can be accessed by both birds simultaneously. It's a great way to increase the number of birds in your backyard, while also adding a unique touch of art deco to its design.Multi-Unit "Duplex" Wren Bird House Plans
Multi-Unit "Duplex" Wren Bird House Plans
For those looking for something larger and more complex, consider the 16-Chamber multi-unit bird house design. This plan calls for constructing a large house with 16 chambers, making it perfect for those with a larger backyard space. Plus, this plan is great for those looking to attract a variety of birds, as the design allows for each chamber to house a different species of bird.16-Chamber Multi-Unit Bird House Design
16-Chamber Multi-Unit Bird House Design
For those looking to really make the most of their multi-unit bird house, there are plans available for building a large multi-unit large bird house. This type of birdhouse typically calls for constructing a large structure made out of several chambers, and can often house up to 16 birds. This is a great way to attract different species of birds to the backyard, and the large birdhouse can add a unique art deco touch to the landscape.Multi-Unit Large Bird House Plans
Multi-Unit Large Bird House Plans
Finally, for those that are looking for a great multi-unit bird house plan, the multi-unit Brock House plan is a great option. This plan calls for constructing a house made out of nine individual chambers, making it perfect for those looking to attract a wide range of birds. And, this plan is designed in such a way that the chambers can be placed in various configurations, giving them plenty of room to nest and fly about.Multi-Unit Brock House Plan
Multi-Unit Brock House Plan
Bird House Plan Considerations for Multi-Unit Design
When planning a multi-unit
bird house
, several key considerations should be kept in mind. The size and design of the house should reflect the species of birds that will use it and must be big enough to accommodate
several birds
comfortably. Consideration also needs to be given to the height that the house will be suspended and the distance between houses.
Materials and Protection
The materials used to construct the
bird house
should also be chosen carefully. A waterproof material, such as cedar, is recommended to ensure the house is able to withstand various weather conditions and protect the birds from predators. Be sure to leave one entrance hole to hang the house and another hole that can be closed with a lid or plug to allow access to clean the house whenever necessary.
Height and Placement
The height of the
bird house
affects where the birds can locate and how safe they will feel. To attract birds, the house should generally be placed between 5 and 10 feet off the ground. However, this may depend on the bird species and local location. If predators are a concern, the house should be placed higher than 10 feet and away from tall trees. Additionally, multiple houses should be at least 25 feet apart to reduce competition for resources.
Bird House Plan Design
The size and design of the
bird house
should reflect the species of birds that will be using it. General guidelines for Utrastellar Jays, Tufted Titmice, and White-Breasted Nuthatches can be found online. For larger species, the entrance hole should generally be at least 2.5 inches in diameter and positioned approximately 12 inches from the floor. If the house is designed for multiple birds, incorporate separate compartments for nesting, roosting, and feeding.
Maintenance
It is important to clean the
bird house
once a year for sanitation and to remove any nesting materials left over from last season. Regular cleaning is recommended to keep the house attractive to birds and prevent parasites from developing. However, be cautious to only remove the needed materials, as birds will sometimes reuse nesting materials from previous seasons.
