Many birds, like the American robin or meadowlark, either build cupshaped nests in trees or nest on the ground. The nest box plans that are found in this publication are specific to wildlife that utilize a cavity, either within a dead or dying tree or a man-made structure such as a nest box. Cavity nesting birds will accept any kind of nest box that they can enter. The following guidance and construction plans will provide specific plans for most North Dakota species. For all practical purposes, wood is the only appropriate building material to use.
Wood is a natural material with good insulating properties.
Plastic and metal often overheat. If the chemical is not applied perfectly, the wood is toxic to birds and humans. Exterior grade plywood contains dangerously high levels of formaldehyde and therefore is also not the best choice. The best woods to use are rough cut cedar or redwood. They naturally resist deterioration when exposed to sun and rain and the weathered look is inconspicuous and attractive.