People often ask if a nest box in the garden is of any use because so few appear to be used. The answer to that is an unreserved yes. With so many natural habitats and nesting sites under threat, cavity nesting birds find there is ever greater competition for nest holes. This is one reason it is so important that everything possible is done to encourage birds into gardens and yards. As many species now rely on sheds, walls and other structures as alternative nesting sites, a custom-built nest box is a welcome addition if it is correctly positioned, safe to use and close to a regular supply of food and water.
Ideally, a new nest box will be in place before winter sets in, which allows time for birds to become accustomed to the new addition and by offering winter shelter you increase the chances of these birds staying and nesting in the spring. However, a far more important factor is the position to make sure it provides a comfortable environment, safe from predators and the worst of the weather.
In reality, this is more of a compromise and needs careful thought. Height is not the main consideration and a box placed at around the six-foot level will be fine. The position must be protected from prevailing cold winds and birds will usually not use nest boxes that face south because of exposure to sun from dawn to dusk. A good place would be anywhere from north to south-east with a clear flight path and not too heavily sheltered or darkened by foliage. They should be secured to prevent movement but preferably not nailed in place, allowing them to be removed at a later date.
Most people will only consider one or two nest boxes, but if you want to place a larger number around your garden, remember that many birds are territorial, so placing them close together will create problems. It is also worth considering that the number of birds a garden will support is limited by the insect population in the immediate vicinity. Whether the nest box has been used or not during the year, you can encourage its use over the winter and the following summer by cleaning it inside. This is ideally done during October or early November. Assuming the nest box has not been permanently nailed into place, it should be taken down and any nesting material removed. Under no circumstances use any cleaning products on the inside, instead, lift the lid or remove a side panel and pour in boiling water before returning it to its usual place. Finally, when considering all the above, do try to position the nest box where you can see it.
Ideally, a new nest box will be in place before winter sets in, which allows time for birds to become accustomed to the new addition and by offering winter shelter you increase the chances of these birds staying and nesting in the spring. However, a far more important factor is the position to make sure it provides a comfortable environment, safe from predators and the worst of the weather.
In reality, this is more of a compromise and needs careful thought. Height is not the main consideration and a box placed at around the six-foot level will be fine. The position must be protected from prevailing cold winds and birds will usually not use nest boxes that face south because of exposure to sun from dawn to dusk. A good place would be anywhere from north to south-east with a clear flight path and not too heavily sheltered or darkened by foliage. They should be secured to prevent movement but preferably not nailed in place, allowing them to be removed at a later date.
Most people will only consider one or two nest boxes, but if you want to place a larger number around your garden, remember that many birds are territorial, so placing them close together will create problems. It is also worth considering that the number of birds a garden will support is limited by the insect population in the immediate vicinity. Whether the nest box has been used or not during the year, you can encourage its use over the winter and the following summer by cleaning it inside. This is ideally done during October or early November. Assuming the nest box has not been permanently nailed into place, it should be taken down and any nesting material removed. Under no circumstances use any cleaning products on the inside, instead, lift the lid or remove a side panel and pour in boiling water before returning it to its usual place. Finally, when considering all the above, do try to position the nest box where you can see it.
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