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How to make a simple nest box
January is an ideal time to build nest box ready for the spring.
It will give the birds time to get used to it and more chances to
attract a breeding pair.
To build this nest box you will need a plank of wood approximately
15cms wide, 1.5cms thick and 142.4cms long.
Measure and mark out the plank as shown in the diagram,
then cut the sections out with a saw.
The entrance hole in the front panel needs to be at least 12cms
from the base of the box, to prevent predators from reaching in
and killing the birds (such as cats).
A guide to the diameter of the hole you decide on is as follows: -
Blue tits require a 2.7cm hole, Great tits require a 3cm hole, and
Tree sparrows and Nuthatches will need a 3.2cm hole.
Depending on the species you want to attract.
Join the panels together with galvanized nails or wood screws.
You could use a piece of rubber or leather for the hinge on the lid
(a piece of old inner tube would do the job),
A strong catch on the lid is required, to stop predators getting inside.
If you treat the wood with preservative make sure it's harmless to animals.
Keep the entrance to the box away from strong sunlight and wet weather,
by positioning the box so that it faces north-east or south east.
Once a year, around autumn time, clear out any old nesting material inside,
as this can harbor parasites. Other than this annual clear out,
try not to disturb the nest box and watch what goes on from a distance.
Happy watching
January is an ideal time to build nest box ready for the spring.
It will give the birds time to get used to it and more chances to
attract a breeding pair.
To build this nest box you will need a plank of wood approximately
15cms wide, 1.5cms thick and 142.4cms long.
Measure and mark out the plank as shown in the diagram,
then cut the sections out with a saw.
The entrance hole in the front panel needs to be at least 12cms
from the base of the box, to prevent predators from reaching in
and killing the birds (such as cats).
A guide to the diameter of the hole you decide on is as follows: -
Blue tits require a 2.7cm hole, Great tits require a 3cm hole, and
Tree sparrows and Nuthatches will need a 3.2cm hole.
Depending on the species you want to attract.
Join the panels together with galvanized nails or wood screws.
You could use a piece of rubber or leather for the hinge on the lid
(a piece of old inner tube would do the job),
A strong catch on the lid is required, to stop predators getting inside.
If you treat the wood with preservative make sure it's harmless to animals.
Keep the entrance to the box away from strong sunlight and wet weather,
by positioning the box so that it faces north-east or south east.
Once a year, around autumn time, clear out any old nesting material inside,
as this can harbor parasites. Other than this annual clear out,
try not to disturb the nest box and watch what goes on from a distance.
Happy watching
