As popular as birdhouses are, many are designed with aesthetics in mind, rather than the bird's preferences and needs. Until now! Lifelong birder Mel "Bird Man Mel" Toellner and pro woodworker Matt Maguire walk readers step-by-step through more than 15 projects for safe birdhouses that birds find conducive to their natural nesting habitats. They begin with a comprehensive introduction to why birdhouses are so important, and why the birdhouses should be created with specific birds in mind like bluebirds, wrens, chickadees, owls and even bats! With additional sections on distribution maps, detailed plans, mounting instructions, and tips on attracting birds to your yard, it has everything you need to create a successful backyard haven for your winged friends.