Birdhouses: Silver Award
Eight determined Girl Scouts from Troop 8210 earned their Silver Award for their project, “Birdhouses”
After taking a walk through Harrington Beach in July and learning about the nesting needs of local birds, the troop became inspired to help create safe habitats for wildlife in their community. The girls researched the types of birdhouses that would best support native bird species and worked together to design, build, and distribute birdhouses to local nature organizations.
Throughout their project, they:
Researched the nesting needs of local bird species
Worked with staff at Harrington Beach about the best birdhouse designs
Designed and built 140 birdhouses, including 92 Bluebird houses and 48 Robin nest boxes
Raised funds by making and selling fire starters, handmade soaps, and bracelets
Used donated lumber to construct the birdhouses
Partnered with local organizations to provide new nesting habitats for birds
With the help of donated wood and countless hours of teamwork, they carefully assembled birdhouses designed with removable doors so they can be cleaned and reused for future nesting seasons.
As part of their project, the troop donated 21 birdhouses to Shalom Wildlife Zoo, 20 birdhouses to Riveredge Nature Center, and planned to deliver 40 birdhouses to Harrington Beach. The remaining birdhouses were shared among troop members to place in their own communities or gift to family and friends, helping expand bird habitats throughout the area.
Through this experience, the troop learned the importance of patience, teamwork, and perseverance while working together to complete such a large project. They discovered how even small actions, like providing safe nesting spaces, can make a lasting impact on local wildlife. Their project helped replace aging birdhouses, create new homes for native birds, and support their community for years to come.
