If you’re a fan of birds and wildlife, you may already be aware of National Nestbox Week.
Part of the Ornithological calendar and first established in 1997, National Nest box Week is celebrated from February 14th to the 21st February each year. It aims to encourage people to buy or build a nestbox for breeding birds and nesting birds in their local area.
Why do nestboxes matter?
Although great for us, our gardens, parks and woodland are much tidier than they once were, preventing birds of natural holes from being able to find a home. And to make matters worse there are fewer nooks and crannies in modern buildings. As a result, the populations of many bird species are down due to housing shortage.
Thankfully, we can all do our bit to help by putting up nest boxes in our garden where possible and encouraging others to do the same.
What makes a good nestbox?
According to nestboxweek.com, “the best boxes are made from either wood or Woodcrete, a super-tough combination of sawdust and concrete. Both materials provide great insulation, ensuring that eggs and chicks don’t become too hot in the midday sun or too cold at night.”
When should I put up my nestbox?
Traditionally, boxes for smaller birds such as tits are put up in early spring before the new breeding season starts. This is why Nestbox Week starts on February 14th, when birds are believed to start their courtship.
However, some species will already be hunting for nest sites long before this date so consider putting up your box as soon as it’s ready.
Where should I put my nestbox?
As tempting as it is to put your nestbox somewhere you can keep a close eye on it, ideally you want to put the box in a place where you can easily maintain and clean it.
Don't worry too much about the height of a box as this isn't a problem for birds. You may want to place the bird low enough to clean easily or inspect, but it is not advised to go lower than 1m above ground level.
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Nestboxes available to buy
1 of 5Gardman Beach Hut Bird Nest
You don't have to live by the beach to give the birds in your garden a holiday with this cute beach hut! Made from FSC certified Timber, it has a plate fitted around the 32mm entrance hole to protect inhabitants from predators.
2 of 5Kingfisher nesting box
Ideal for tits, sparrows, nuthatches and pied fly catchers, this wooden nesting box has a hinged lid for easy access.
3 of 5Fallen Fruits Ltd Bird House
This seagrass roosting pocket is mounted on a wooden frame with a roof for added protection from the elements. It will provide welcome shelter for wild birds such as wrens.
4 of 54 x wooden nesting boxes
Why have one nestbox when you can have FOUR? This set of 4 Kingfisher Bird Nest Boxes is ideal for a variety of small wild birds such as robins and blue tits.
5 of 5Wildlife Dovecote Nest box
It may be pricey but we love this traditional timber nestbox. The box has a keyhole slot for hanging and an opening back for annual cleaning of the nest box.
Make your own nestbox
Follow this tutorial from Life in a Mancave to make your very own nestbox from scratch.
For more information on nestboxes, visit Nestbox Week.