Households urged to make one addition to their gardens before spring

It’s the perfect time to lend birds a hand

Mia O’Hare Showbiz Reporter

02:10, 15 Feb 2026

Households have been urged to put one thing in their garden for the birds(Image: Callingcurlew23 via Getty Images)

Homeowners with gardens are being encouraged to make one simple addition to their outdoor areas ahead of spring. As birds prepare to say goodbye to winter, they could do with a bit of extra support, and now is the perfect time to lend them a hand.

Whilst many of us take pleasure in observing birds visiting our gardens, there’s one thing that can encourage them to linger for longer. The RSPB recommends installing a straightforward nest box in your outdoor space.

According to the conservation charity, it’s the simplest way you can assist our feathered friends.

Simply erecting a nest box can help draw birds to your garden and provide them with a safe haven. With National Nest Box Week approaching next week, now is an ideal moment to purchase one.

A nest box is an easy way to help birds in your garden(Image: Westend61 via Getty Images)

Nest boxes generally cost between £10 and £20, though cheaper options can be sourced online. The RSPB explained: “Putting out bird food is great, but if birds don’t have access to nesting sites, they won’t have anywhere to raise the next generation.”, reports the Express.

“It’s also key that the nest sites are nearby to foraging locations, where they can find plenty of invertebrates without leaving the nest for too long.”

These boxes usually feature a small entrance hole that’s just large enough for small birds to slip through. This means nothing bigger can access them and ensures they’re sheltered from harsh weather.

Selecting a nest box can also benefit particular species. The RSPB said: “Although Swifts aren’t due back until late April, these are birds badly in need of a helping hand.

“Between 1995 and 2021, numbers plummeted by 62% in the UK, with a lack of suitable nest sites a contributing factor.

“Different birds favour different types of nest boxes.”

A purpose-built Swift box will entice the birds to remain.

Starling populations have declined in recent years, though they too are fond of nest boxes. Robins are partial to open-fronted nest boxes, where rather than an entrance hole, the front is halved.

Whichever you choose, you must ensure they are cleared out during autumn. The ideal time for this is September, provided the nest is no longer in use.

Given that we are now nearing spring, it is advisable to leave the nest boxes undisturbed to avoid unsettling the birds.