The bluebird as well as the woodpecker has a preference for nesting in a deep cavity. The accompanying sketches illustrate a house adapted to their needs, designed to be placed on a pole or on the stump of a branch in a tree-Bluebirds, it may be stated, appear to have an aversion for a house that is suspended from above.

The special feature in the design of this house is the provision made for cleaning - a matter too often overlooked in planning bird houses. Instead of attaching the bottom to the sides, it is securely nailed and braced on the top of a pole. The house slips on over the bottom, and is prevented from dropping down too far by four small strips nailed around the inside. A hook and eye at each side holds it securely in place, and at the same time makes it possible to quickly remove the house for cleaning.

The entire house may be readily worked out from two three-quarter-inch boards, as shown in the lumber diagram. First nail the four sides together, and then fit on the top. Fit all seams closely, and cover the ridge with a strip of zinc or tin to shed the water. It is a good plan in sawing out the entrance to make the outside diameter somewhat larger than the inside, as this will tend to keep the water from trickling inside during a driving rain.

This house may also be painted a quiet shade of gray, green or brown, or else covered with bark. Always place it with the back toward the prevailing winds if these are noticeable.