Wildlife experts reveal that wrens a particular type of nest boxes, which will encourage these small birds to make their home in your garden during nesting season.
Ellen Jenne Senior U35 Spare Time Writer
13:43, 26 Feb 2026
Wildlife experts reveal that wrens a particular type of nest boxes, which will encourage these small birds to make their home in your garden during nesting season(Image: phil watson / 500px via Getty Images)
Spring is nearly upon us, which will herald the nesting season for birds across the UK. Nesting season typically spans from March to September, so if you’re keen to help encourage birds – particularly wrens – into your garden to establish their home, you should think about the environment.
Wildlife and bird experts have outlined why the selection of bird boxes matters if you want to encourage wrens to settle in your garden, reports the Express. Ideal Home explained: “Whilst there are plenty of fuss-free methods to attract birds to your garden, different species have different preferences, and wrens prefer deeper, open-faced bird boxes. Here’s why.”
James Ewens, wildlife expert from Green Feathers, told Ideal Home: “Wrens and robins are slightly different, nothing new there! Wrens like smaller, deeper, open-faced boxes because they mimic their natural, sheltered habitat. They also prefer to be lower down, around one to two metres off the ground, and hidden away in foliage – ideally tucked away into thickets, thorny bushes, or foliage to protect them from predators.
Open-fronted nest boxes can help wrens mimic their natural habitat(Image: Getty)
“Wrens prioritise safety like most bird populations, so think sheltered, dry, well-concealed, and hidden away in dense foliage for their protection and comfort.”
CJ Wildlife wrote: “An open-fronted nest box offers the perfect solution by mimicking the natural nesting sites these birds seek out in hedgerows, dense shrubs, and ivy-covered walls. These boxes provide a safe and sheltered place for birds to raise their young whilst protecting them from harsh weather and potential predators.”
Open-fronted bird boxes are suitable for various types of gardens, whether you’re in the rural countryside or a “small urban space”. Installing one in your garden will provide wrens with a secure home where they can rest, nest and feed.
A key advantage of open-fronted nest boxes is that they promote natural nesting behaviour. CJ Wildlife explained: “Encourages natural nesting behaviour by offering a space similar to those found in hedgerows and undergrowth.”
The RSPB has highlighted that nesting and bird boxes can help nurture the next generation of fine-feathered friends. When selecting a location for the box, it’s crucial to position them close to foraging sites, enabling the birds to feed on invertebrates without being away from the nest for extended periods.
To help entice wrens to nest in bird boxes, James recommended adding some fresh hay or a small handful of dry leaves or moss. The RSPB advised holding off on cleaning the nest boxes as spring approaches, so as not to disturb the birds.
Instead, wait until the nesting season has come to an end before giving the box a thorough clean.
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