Peak perches

Fowl plays wins again in birdhouse contest

Old and new materials combined for an innovative nest of birdhouses at this year's Great N&O Birdhouse Contest. Designs showed off rich and exotic woods, expertly turned and fashioned into surprising images and shapes. Regular old bottle corks, wooden shims and even plastic tennis ball containers came together to form unique spaces for winged dwelling. One birdhouse offered a "Nestcam."

But it's not enough to look swell on the outside. The houses also had to include the stuff that makes an abode for birds inhabitable. They needed to be mountable and have the ability to be cleaned out as well as provide an entry hole, protection, drainage and circulation.

"It's always so uplifting to see how creative people are," said Kathleen Thompson, a judge for the adult entries and a volunteer at the JC Raulston Arboretum, where the event was held March 25. The contest attracted about 1,000 visitors and 113 entries, said Christopher Glenn, arboretum programs and education coordinator. As in past years, the show was not a disappointment.

If you didn't get by the arboretum to see the flock of houses, here's a glance at the winning designs and some of the creators behind them. Take notes and put on your thinking cap. You have about 12 months to come up with your birdhouse for next year's contest.

ADULT SERIOUS

First place - Joseph Bradshaw, Cary

"Wrenpunzel's Castle"

Maple burl, lyptus, Western cedar and Coco Bolo come together perfectly on this castle fit for a Carolina or House wren. There are even a few extra strands of human hair (compliments of a wig) to give the birds a head start on building a nest. "Wow! Wrenpunzel will be thrilled with her castle!" one judge wrote. "Outstanding woodwork and attention to detail."

Second place - John Bailey, Angier

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This house has history, says its creator. From the tin roof to the siding, doors, window boxes and brick flooring, all the materials were salvaged from an old, burned house (built in the 1800s) on South Main Street in Fuquay-Varina that was once owned by J.D. "Squire" Ballentine and his wife, Virginia, nicknamed Varina.

Third place - Wayman Merrill, Fuquay-Varina

"Log Cabin Haven"

Finding a way to clean out the cabin stumped the judges, but they were still impressed with the craftsmanship in the use of logs and a tin roof.

ADULT PROFESSIONAL

First place - Amy Sawyer, Wake Forest

"Chickadee House (The Literal Interpretation)"

With its smooth body of cedar, hardwood beak, shiny glass eyes and copper feet, this chickadee strikes a convincing pose. "Beautifully crafted," judge Beth Jimenez said.

Second place - Tara Lea Girolimon, Cary

"Sophie"

The judges commented, "Very clever use of materials."

Third place - Fredrick Benson, Cary

"Eastern Bluebird Nestbox with Wireless Color Nestcam"

This very functional birdhouse takes bird-watching to a new level. "The video would be wonderful for families to watch the birds!" the judges said.

CHILDREN 10-12

First place - Christopher Hartwell, 10, Wake Forest

"Wildwood Birdhouse"

Easy cleaning, along with a simple yet creative design, impressed the judges.

Second place - Peter Soloninka, 12, Raleigh

"Shim City"

Who knew that wooden shims could make such a cool birdhouse?

Third place - Casey Harris, 11, Durham

"Ice Cream Cone"

A refreshing summer treat is the inspiration for creating this abode for relaxation.

CHILDREN 4-6

1st place - Iyanna McAllister, 6, Raleigh

"Circle of the Living Birds"

Small hands put together a simple, elegant design here. "Creative" was one word the judges used.