The Bermuda Audubon Society's annual bluebird nest box construction workshop takes place at Government House this Saturday.

Expert builders will donate their skills to help participants create the best boxes possible.

"Anyone can attend and families are particularly welcome, but children must be accompanied by an adult," said Society president Andrew Dobson. "All materials will be provided, but please bring a hammer. This is the time of the year to start putting boxes up in your garden, so if you need a box, please do come and join us. You will also be given full instructions on how to monitor your box, which is crucial if you want to keep the sparrows out and raise some bluebird chicks."

Boxes completed during the workshop will be offered for sale, with proceeds going towards bluebird conservation efforts.

Added Society vice president Richard Amos: "Bluebirds no longer nest in natural tree cavities due to the loss of cedar trees and competition from kiskadees, starlings and sparrows. The bluebird nest box scheme was started by the Audubon Society about 50 years ago. The native Eastern Bluebird is now totally dependent on nest boxes to breed."

The event begins at 9.30 a.m. Participants should enter via the Langton Hill entrance and take the first turning on the left.

For more information e-mail info@audubon.bm. The workshop is free, but donations are welcome towards the cost of the materials.