The front of this nest box swings open to allow for easy cleaning. The hinge nails should not be driven in too tightly and should be directly opposite so as to not bind the front when opened. The bottom of the front is secured by nails inserted in slanted holes on each side. Leave 1/4" space at the top of front for ventilation. The materials used can be scrap 1" x 6" and l" x 8" lumber. Galvanized or coated nails hold better than smooth nails. To avoid splitting the boards with the nails use a slightly smaller drill bit to start the holes. The top is beveled slightly to fit snugly against the back. Bluebirds use a 1 1/2" diameter entrance hole with the bottom of the hole 6" above the floor. A light colored paint or stain will add years to the use of the box. A non-toxic paint such as latex should be used and applied to the outside only. Grooves should be sawed beneath the hole on the inside to serve as a toe hold for easy exit. Some weak-footed birds such as swallows can become trapped inside without a ladder to the outside. Birds that use a smaller entrance will also use this box. Larger birds, of course, will not be able to enter. Some of the tenants that used this size box in Southern Idaho are: Mountain Bluebird Western Bluebird House wren Tree Swallow Black-capped Chickadee Mountain Chickadee White-breasted Nuthatch White-headed Woodpecker (roost) Pine Squirrels Flying Squirrels Chipmunks Place the nest box on posts, snags or tree trunks 4' to 15' above the ground. It gets hot inside the box when exposed to hot sun so select a spot that is shaded from the afternoon sun. Bluebirds are extremely territorial. The boxes on your Bluebird Trail should be placed no closer than 100 yards. Bluebirds prefer open areas that are adjacent to open fields. House Sparrows will be discouraged if box is set up away from farm buildings. House Wrens will most surely use the box if placed in or near heavy brush. For more information call or write: Al Larson 3015 Silver St., Boise, Idaho 83703 (208) 344-2919