As autumn rolls in, garden birds begin searching for safe places to shelter from the cold. Putting up a bird box might seem like a quick fix – but there’s a bit more to it than just hammering one to a tree.
If it’s in the wrong spot or facing the wrong way, birds might steer clear altogether. Worse still, a badly placed box could put them in danger from predators.
‘Installing a bird box is one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to support local native bird species, but poor placement could actually do more harm than good,’ the ecology specialists atArbtech.co.uk tell us. ‘Birds are sensitive to predators, disturbance, heat and human activity – so you must consider a bird box spot that takes all these into account.’
Read on for the crucial mistakes to avoid when putting up a bird box and how to position it instead.
Eva-Katalin – Getty Images
Where not to put up a bird box…1. Facing south
The direction in which you position your bird box is crucial. ‘If you have a south-facing garden, make sure to place the box in a shaded area of your garden,’ the experts say. ‘Exposing the bird box to direct sunlight can lead to unsafe temperatures for nesting birds and chicks.’
You should always aim for north-east to south-east-facing positions. This way, your bird box will catch the mild morning sun, avoid the midday heat and keep nesting birds sheltered from strong winds.
Tip: While peak nesting time is in spring and summer, some species rear chicks until as late as September. Regardless, nesting should always be taken into account when positioning a bird box so you don’t have to move it again come spring.
Melissa Ross – Getty Images
2. Within reach of predators
Don’t place your bird boxes where predators, like cats, rats and squirrels can easily reach them. ‘Instead, aim to place your bird box in a spot which provides some protection, like on a wall or fence or tucked away in vegetation,’ Arbtech explain.
3. To close to feeders
You should also avoid putting your bird box up in close proximity to bird feeders or bird baths. ‘High levels of bird activity close by can disturb established nests,’ the experts warn.
Instead, find a place where the resting or nesting birds can enjoy some peace and quiet. ‘You should also avoid placing several bird boxes close together, as many species of birds are territorial; this could cause the boxes to be disturbed or abandoned.’
Carlos G. Lopez – Getty Images
4. Too far from foliage
If you want birds to not just seek shelter in your bird box over winter but also choose it as a nesting place, you should position it in a place where food isn’t far.
‘It is important to place boxes near to areas of shrubbery and trees so the birds can easily forage for food for their offspring,’ say the experts.
What to feed birds: ‘For garden birds, suet balls and other fat-based food bars are excellent, high-energy foods for winter and popular with a wide range of birds. Sunflower seeds are the go-to choice universally alongside mealworms,’ says Helen Nyul, group head of biodiversity at David Wilson Homes. ‘Make sure to avoid any salted foods and nuts, as these can dehydrate the birds. Also, avoid any loose peanuts and larger food items, as parent birds might take these back to their nests, and their young can choke on them.’
5. Too far from or too close to the ground
Last but not least, don’t forget about the importance of getting the height just right. ‘The height from the ground depends on what species of bird you are hoping to attract,’ explain Arbtech.
A good rule of thumb is to position your bird box between one and five metres from the ground. ‘Larger birds like woodpeckers and owls prefer for boxes to be between three and five metres high. Tits and sparrows opt for two to four metres high. And robins and blackbirds prefer nests one to two metres from the ground,’ the experts explain.
All set? Now all you need is a nice big bag of seeds, and you’re ready to continue birdwatching all throughout the cold season.
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