Courtesy photo | People are busy constructing their entries for the 20th anniversary of the Ogden Nature Center birdhouse competition and exhibit. The free competition awards cash prizes and the winning entries will be on display at the Ogden Nature Center April 11-Aug. 31. This entry from last year's event is called "Wren Cottage" and was built by Andrew Callis of Salt Lake City.

Need proof the housing market is improving? How about a call for entries for the 20th anniversary of the Ogden Nature Center birdhouse competition and exhibit.

The annual opportunity to make a memorable home for backyard birds is free, but there are some specific guidelines to follow. Basically, the base of the house cannot exceed 24 inches square and the height of the birdhouse (excluding the post) may not be more than 36 inches.

Birdhouse can be turned in at the front desk of the Ogden Nature Center, 966 W. 12th St., in Ogden between March 25 and 30. A jury of artists and bird experts will judge the birdhouses and determine which creations will be placed on exhibit along the Birdhouse Trail.

Winners in the adult and child categories will receive cash prizes and be announced at a reception April 10 starting at 5:30 p.m. in the L.S. Peery Education Building. Winning birdhouses will be displayed April 11 to Aug. 31.

Ogden Nature Center officials urge birdhouse builders to consider using natural, reclaimed and recycled materials. The nature center also allows, and in fact encourages, family or team entries. Each individual or party is allowed two entries.

Visit the Ogden Nature Center website, www.ogdennaturecenter.org/, for details on the competition.

Brett Prettyman