Finch nest boxes come in a number of styles and can be made from a handful of different materials. These boxes may be store-bought or homemade and may be constructed of wood, wire, or natural products, like gourds. Regardless of what they are made of and how they are shaped, finch boxes must be able to provide these birds with small, protective enclosures so that they can safely raise their young.
The most traditional finch nest boxes are made from wood. They can be very fancy and well made, or may only consist of a few pieces of wood nailed together. These types of boxes are long lasting, and can be made so that the lid can be removed to easily check on baby birds.
Some types of finch nest boxes are not boxes at all but are shaped like eggs and made of wicker or reeds. These baskets have an opening in the front for the birds to enter and exit. These baskets may be attached to trees or the sides of buildings. The downside to these structures is that they are not long lasting and usually must be replaced every year or two. Also, they can’t be opened to inspect the baby birds inside.
Occasionally, finch nest boxes are made of wire mesh rather than wood or reeds. These wire boxes consist of mesh or screening on all sides, and the birds fill them with the nesting products as they desire all around the interior perimeter of the box, making it waterproof and warm when they are finished. This type of nest promotes air flow and is easy to clean and maintain from year to year.
Some finch breeders make inexpensive finch nest boxes from plastic plant pots. A hole that is the appropriate size for a finch is made into the bottom of the pot, and the top of the pot is attached to a piece of board, creating a perfect nesting environment. The drawback to this style of finch nest box is that it cannot be placed in an overly sunny spot, as the plastic may overheat.
There are also a number of more natural options for finch nest boxes. Dried gourds can be used as nest boxes. After the gourd is dried, a hole is drilled into it and the seeds removed to make space for the birds. Hollow logs are another option for finch nesting, although it may be hard to find a log that is the perfect size for the finches.