Nesting

Natural nesting sites are declining and it is believed that this may be contributing to the decrease in numbers of many species of birds. In the countryside modern farming methods have led to the loss of many hedgerows and mature trees. Combine this with the recent boom in development, whether it new housing, or the rejuvenation of old houses and outbuildings, and we can begin to understand why many birds are finding it harder to locate a suitable cavity in which to raise their brood

By providing a suitable place for raising a family, you can really make a difference to the success of some of the birds in your area. Not only do they benefit from our help but watching the activity of parents bringing food into the brood until the fledglings take their first 'flight' can be hugely rewarding and fascinating.

Siting Nest Boxes

• A nest box can be sited in any sized garden - if you have the space try siting more than one to increase your chances of a family taking residence

• Ensure boxes are at least 1.5m from the ground with a clear flight path and inaccessible to predators. Avoid boxes with perches as these can provide a foothold for unwelcome guests. Simple devices such as a metal plate or Bird Guardian can help deter predators.

• Position your box away from the prevailing westerly wind, rain and strong sunlight as these can all affect the environment inside the box.

• Nest boxes should be wooden or constructed from a material with similar insulating properties such as woodcrete. Plastic or metal boxes can cause birds to overheat so should always be avoided.

• When the breeding season is over, old nests can be removed and the box cleaned out. However, some hole-nesting species, including coal tits, may have second or third broods in the same nest. The nests of these species should be left until sometime during the autumn when it is certain that they are no longer in use