What began as a simple decision not to cut down an old pine tree has blossomed into a whimsical neighborhood landmark —and a thriving home for local birds in Stanley.
In the front yard of Jeff Ryba’s home at 36880 90th Avenue, an eye-catching creation known as “Feathered Estates” is turning heads and welcoming wings. Built around the remaining trunk of a once-dying tree, Ryba’s project is a multi-level birdhouse complex, handcrafted from a mix of wooden birdhouses and salvaged materials he’s collected over time.
After the pine tree died, the power company cut away its branches and left only the trunk behind. Staring at what remained, Ryba thought to himself, “I gotta do something with that.” From that moment, the idea for Feathered Estates began. Over the past year, that idea has taken shape—literally. Feathered Estates features birdhouses of all shapes, sizes, and styles, each mounted to the old tree trunk like a miniature high-rise. Some are classic wooden boxes, while others are made from repurposed scrap materials, giving the entire structure a quirky, artistic feel.
“I found some, I had some, some I got from family,” said Ryba. One birdhouse he won from the Thorp Fireman’s Ball.
And he’s not done yet. Ryba plans to add even more birdhouses in the future, continuing to build out the complex and keep it evolving with new ideas and materials.
“As long as there’s room I’m going to keep adding,” said Ryba with a grin. “Until the tree falls over.”
The best part? It’s not just for show.
Ryba has welcomed several feathered ‘tenants’ who’ve taken up residence in the various houses — though none have paid their ‘rent.’
“No contracts,” joked Ryba of his seasonal tenants. “Day to day because it kind of goes with the season too.”
One birdhouse currently houses an active nest—a sign that his creation is doing exactly what he hoped: giving back to nature and bringing a little life to the neighborhood.
But Feathered Estates is just one feature of Ryba’s mini backyard “zoo.” His property is home to a lively mix of animals, including a mini horse, fainting goats (that never faint), two donkeys, eight ducks, and a large flock of chickens. True to form, each animal area comes with its own playful name: the goats live in a repurposed old barn called “Animal House,” the “Hen Hut” is home to the chickens, while the ducks waddle around their cozy quarters in “The Quack Shack.”
Ryba works for a local carpentry company and has his own business Honey Do Maintenance, skills that have helped bring Feathered Estates—and his many other projects—to life. He’s also a dedicated member of the Stanley and Boyd Fire Departments and ambulance services, where he volunteers his time to help keep the community safe.
Feathered Estates now stands as a creative example of turning something old into something meaningful—a blend of recycling, nature, and community charm. For Ryba, it’s a labor of love that’s taken flight.