Nest Boxes

Ask any estate agent the three most important considerations when house hunting to find the perfect home – location, location, location. Birds are no different! Each species has its own preference for nest size, shape and above all, position. Over 60 species of birds in Britain are known to use nestboxes. Some of the most common are listed below

• Some birds need a precise size entrance hole, while others prefer open fronted boxes.

• Siting for success - position is critical. The best sites are sheltered, East or North facing direction, away    from the   prevailing wind and in shade during the hottest time of the day.

• All boxes must be sited out of reach of cats and high enough to foil young curious human fingers!

• Two to five metres high on a tree or wall is ideal.

• Tilt the box forward slightly to prevent rain entering the hole.

• In trees use wire around trunk rather than nails and check every couple of years to prevent    cutting  into the bark.

• Clean out nest boxes at the end of every breeding season. (Oct – January is best)

• Softwood boxes can be protected on the outside only with water based preservatives.

• Once dry, a little clean sawdust or woodchip can be placed inside to attract roosting birds over winter,    such as   wrens.