As the biggest hurdle for this housing unit was cost, I owe a big thanks to Craigslist. The only direct purchases for this were the wire mesh (1/2" aviary netting, $1.70/ft. at 48" wide), the 2x6 redwood roof beam, hinges for the roof, and corner brackets for the walls.I had originally planned to photograph the process and offer a play-by-play, but that is a drag by oneself. Also, it got pretty embarrassing a couple of times, considering my carpenter's motto: Measure once, cut twice!
The ducks spent their first night outdoors in their new home, and were much happier and more content than I was. This morning, when Irma barked, I jumped out of bed to make sure she wasn't barking at the cat that had gotten in and slaughtered the three sisters. But, they were fine. Of course, when they saw me, they commenced to quack/squealing for breakfast...
This house is designed to be moved around the yard every day or two, allowing the ducks to get to fresh forage and to evenly distribute their compost in the yard. This first version has a couple of flaws, one of which is that I can't get in without unscrewing something, so today I build an adequate means of entry that also provides security...
I also learned that I LOVE my bandsaw...
I bought this last year at Lowe's. It was the floor model, the last they had, and it was marked down from $180 to $90, but after noting some missing pieces (none dangerous), I walked out of the store with it for $75. The first thing I did with it was resaw some old 2x4 redwood pieces I had, and it cut them like butter and straight enough for me (my other carpenter's motto: I ain't building a piano). So, with the duck house near completion, the ducks are officially outside animals. I hope they don't get eaten...
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