Providing supplemental shelter: Nest boxes and brush piles are two simple yet practical ways to provide shelter and nesting sites to wildlife. Instead of burning all piles of cleared juniper, leave a few piles to create habitat and escape cover for small birds and mammals.
Nest boxes for bluebirds and wood ducks are also simple and easy ways to provide valuable nesting habitat. They are easy to build or can be purchased from various sources. They also are a great project for a high school environmental class or local agriculture group. The size of the entrance hole and proper placement of the nest boxes are the two most critical factors to their success.
Literature is available on proper construction and management of nest boxes. A system of monitoring and recording their use and success (reproduction) should be established.