The bird house factory is dedicated to providing volunteer opportunities to the SIUC community and the environment. We make bird houses to help species that are endangered. At present this includes Blue Bird Houses and soon to be Bat Houses. The blue bird and the brown bat are both in danger of extinction. Blue birds have man induced non-native predators of the common starling and house sparrow, both of which have been known to kill young bluebirds. The brown bat is suffering from white nose disease. While the cause and cure has not been found. It is widely believed that taking stresses off of the bats will help them. We are also painting Saluki graffiti on the bird houses to publicize our fine institution.

In the Beginning we started as the Happy Factory, making toys for children. Regulations in the toy industries forced us to look for a new cause. The birds have not as of yet created any regulating officials for housing so it seem like the place to be. We will also have our volunteers help with other projects that are good for the community as needed.

How it works: We have a couple of plans. Volunteers 18 and older with proof of insurance can come in and volunteer. SIUC students are covered on the insurance through the school plan. Volunteers can make kits, assemble kits, paint and decorate bird houses, picking up materials, putting up bird houses, and fundraisers for supplies.

In order to make bird houses we need materials. Material donators can help us find places to donate the bird houses. The Southern Illinois Audubon Society will take all we can make. We can take monetary or in-kind donations. When possible we use recycled materials:

• 2” x 4”s, 1” x s lumber
• exterior plywood
• nails
• exterior paint
• poles

The ultimate benefactors of these bird houses are the birds and ourselves as we enjoy these creatures and the work they do for us.

Birdhouse Samples:

Contact the Craft Shop for more information or to set up an appointment @ 618-453-3636, or e-mail the us @ This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for more information.