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Task · part of 5. Choose one management project, and check how long it takes

5(a). Two nest boxes, records for a whole nesting season

Optional May not apply Often forgotten

This may not apply to you. You have not answered "Requirement 5: which management project?" yet. Answer it and this step will either settle or drop off.

Construct, erect and check regularly at least two artificial nest boxes (wood duck, bluebird, squirrel or similar), keeping written records for one nesting season. The longest option on the badge, and the only one the calendar decides.

Warning. THE CALENDAR DECIDES THIS ONE, NOT YOU. Records are kept for one nesting season, so the boxes have to be up before nesting starts and the records run until it ends. Erect them in late summer or autumn and there is nothing to write down until spring. If you are working to a deadline, check when your local species nest before choosing this option.

Where this step comes from

  1. Fish & Wildlife Management Merit Badge Requirements (Merit Badge Hub, last modified 2026-05-05), Requirement 5(a) · The requirement states records kept for one nesting season.

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