How to Build a Bluebird House Out of a Gourd

Making a birdhouse from a dried gourd is a wonderful way to create a natural nesting place for birds. Although the birdhouse itself is made following the same procedure, the size of the nesting hole and the height of the house determines which birds you are likely to attract to your new birdhouse. Gourd birdhouses might look like they take skill to build, but they are actually much easier than you might think. With a little time and patience, you can create an attractive birdhouse to attract bluebirds to your yard.

Select a dried gourd in a size and shape that appeals to you. Generally, you want a gourd with a round bottom and a narrow neck for best results.

Clean the dried gourd with a wire brush or sandpaper to remove any debris from the outside. Wipe with a soft cloth to remove any dust.

Soak the gourd in a solution of 2 cups household bleach to 1 gallon of water for 15 minutes. This will kill any mold or fungus and prevent rot. Allow to air dry.

Cut a 1½-inch hole with a hole saw a little higher than the center of the gourd. Gently clean the inside of the gourd and remove any seeds or pulp.

Drill two ¼-inch holes in the stem opposite each other. Thread a piece of heavy wire through the holes to create a hanger.

Drill four to six 3/8-inch holes in the bottom of the gourd for drainage.

Paint the outside of the birdhouse with primer and repeat with an oil based paint. Light colors are preferred as they reflect light and keep the inside of the birdhouse cooler in the summer.

Hang the birdhouse 5 to 10 feet from the ground in a sheltered location. Bluebirds prefer houses mounted to face the east on the edges of open fields or meadows.