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Nestboxes for small birds
Nestboxes are excellent substitutes for the holes found in old trees. In young woodlands and plantations, and in many parks and gardens there may be plenty of food for small birds but nowhere for hole-nesting birds to nest.
Over 60 species are known to have used nestboxes. Regular residents include blue, great and coal tits, nuthatches, house and tree sparrows, starlings, spotted and pied flycatchers, robins, house martins, kestrels and tawny owls. Much depends on the type of the box, where it is located, and on its surroundings.
In recent years, the fortunes of many birds have varied. For example, blue and great tits have prospered, while house sparrows and starlings have declined. If you want to provide a nest box, try, if possible, to target those birds that genuinely need help.
Everything you need to know, including a plan you can follow, to make your own nestbox. More... |  |
Where to put a nestbox depends on the species the box is intended for. Boxes for tits, sparrows or starlings should be fixed two to four metres up a tree or a wall. More... |  |
The nests of most birds harbour fleas and other parasites, which remain to infest young birds that hatch the following year. We've got some tips for maintaining your nestboxes and keeping them clean. More... |  |
Birds aren't the only things that like to enter nestboxes. Predators and insects may also take up residence. More... |  |
Putting a nestbox up may enable you to watch some fascinating bird behaviour up close. Here are a few things to look out for. More... |  |