Gardeners in Devon are being urged to give birds a helping hand.
As part of National Nestbox Week, taking place from February 14 to 21, British Garden Centres is encouraging the public to install nestboxes to support bird populations.
With natural nesting sites in decline due to the loss of trees and traditional garden features, providing safe nesting spaces is more important than ever.
Paul Williams, bird care buyer at British Garden Centres, said: “National Nestbox Week is the perfect opportunity for people to make a real difference to local bird populations.
“Engaging with nature and helping the birds in your garden live healthy lives is an important aspect of our living environment.
“Introducing a nestbox to your garden can significantly improve a bird’s quality of life and is just as essential as a feeder or bird bath in your outdoor space.”
The group recommends choosing nestboxes made of wood with 15mm thick walls for insulation, a minimum internal floor of 130 square centimetres, drainage holes, and a sloped roof.
Nestboxes with entrance holes are best for species such as tits, sparrows, and nuthatches, while open-fronted boxes will attract robins, wrens, and wagtails.
Placement also matters, with boxes best located on tree trunks, walls, or fences at a safe height and out of direct sunlight.
In addition to nestboxes, British Garden Centres advises planting native hedging like hawthorn and holly, providing year-round bird feed, and maintaining a shallow, clean birdbath to create a welcoming environment for birds.
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