How to Make a Martin Gourd Bird House
- 1). Select a gourd that is at least 10 to 12 inches in diameter. Cut it from the vine only when the vine has dried and died off at the end of the growing season. Make sure to leave a few inches of stem attached to the gourd, and use clean, sharp cutters to prevent bruising to the stem.
- 2). Wash the gourd in warm, soapy water with a soft cloth or brush, being careful not to harm the skin. Dip the gourd in a mild solution of one or two cups bleach in a five-gallon bucket of water to kill parasites, mold, and bacteria.
- 3). Dry the gourd completely, and place on a few sheets of newspaper or cardboard in a dry, well ventilated location outside.
- 4). Allow the gourd to dry for up to six months, turning often to prevent the gourd from flattening out. The gourd is ready to finish when the seeds rattle upon shaking.
- 5). Use a 2 1/2-inch expansion bit or hole saw to cut an opening in the front of the gourd. The hole should be placed slightly towards the top of the gourd's natural slope to prevent chicks from falling out, but not so high as to allow rain into the gourd.
- 6). Soak the gourd in a warm water and bleach solution for 10 minutes, and use a serrated knife and wire brush to remove the innards. Pat the gourd dry again.
- 7). Drill three to four small 3/8-inch holes in the bottom of the gourd for drainage, and two more holes towards the top of the gourd for ventilation and to provide a place from which to hang the gourd.
- 8). Hang the bird house gourd 12 to 20 feet up on a tree or other sturdy structure. Martins prefer groups, so hanging multiple gourds will increase your chances of attracting them.
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