Our tips and advice for creating the ideal nesting location
Nesting opportunities for garden birds are reduced by modern building practices as well as the destruction of natural nesting sites. Many birds will look for artificial nest sites, therefore nest boxes are a valuable role in areas where natural cavities are in short supply.
Careful consideration must be given to where a nest box is placed. It is essential to choose the right type of nest box depending on the birds you would like to attract. Nest boxes vary in entrance size, box dimensions, and placement height. It is important to understand how and where to site your nest box to increase the likelihood of birds nesting.
Where to site your nest box?
It is never too early or too late to put up a nest box. Birds will begin looking for nesting opportunities from January. Don't be too concerned if a bird does not nest straight away, it can take a while for a bird to familarise before nesting. The surroundings of a nest box need to be safe and comfortable and should be accessible for maintenance, cleaning, and inspection.
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Place the nest box away from any high winds and rain and keep out of direct sunlight- this is crucial for regulating the temperate inside the nest box
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Keep away from bird feeders as feeding birds can disturb nesting birds
- Mount the box on a sturdy pole or tree trunk
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If the nest box is being attached to a tree, angle the front of the box slightly downwards to prevent water entering
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Position the nest box around 4 to 6ft off the ground to prevent the risk of predators
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Position the nest box in a quiet place
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Additionally, spacing between nest boxes is important to prevent overcrowding and territorial disputes among nesting pairs
Choosing your nest box
When choosing a nest box, it’s a good idea to go for the best quality you can afford, as it’s vital the box is a safe haven for young chicks. Choose a nest box made from FSC® certified timber without any coating that might hamper the development of young birds. Read our article on how to choose a nest box.
Other tips and advice
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Keep nearby feeders topped up with bird food to cater for the increased appetite of hungry chicks
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Regularly monitor nest boxes to ensure their effectiveness and the well-being of birds
- Check for signs of occupancy, such as nesting material, this can indicate successful nesting attempts.
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Nest boxes can be cleaned out between 1st August and 31st January but be aware that some birds may still be breeding!
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Removing old nests can reduce the number of nest parasites, including fleas, present the following season
Peckish Nest Boxes
The Peckish Garden Nest Box is made from FSC© 100% certified wood. It includes an easy to clean side opening and drainage holes to prevent build up of moisture. The perfect size for Blue Tits, Great Tits, Coal Tits and Long-Tailed Tits.
The Peckish Everyday Nest Box is made from FSC© 100% certified wood. With drainage holes preventing the build up of moisture and a pre-drilled screw hole for easy hanging. It has an interchangeable front to attract the widest range of birds.
