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No matter if tits, robins or starlings - in order to lay eggs, brood and raise their young, birds need a safe nesting place. In our modern cultural landscape, however, these are becoming increasingly rare. Man-made and suspended nesting boxes are therefore of great importance for the survival of the animals. In order for this to work, however, a few points must be taken into account when hanging up.
nesting box
A nesting box is an artificially created structure that provides birds with a secure cavity where they can build a nest and raise their offspring. Nesting box is not all the same as a nesting box.Meaning: Not every shape is suitable for every bird species. However, with a shape that follows the classic star box, you can build a safe breeding ground for most of the bird species that occur here. Of course, the size and, above all, the diameter of the entry hole is of importance, which should not be underestimated. The animals must finally have enough space for a nest and in the first place can get into the box.
As a rule of thumb, the larger the bird species, the larger the nesting box and the entry hole must be.
Tip: Before you go to the construction or purchase of a nesting box, it is best to observe which species of birds are common in the garden and then makes a decision.
Location
Above all, the ideal location for a nesting box must meet two requirements: it should absolutely provide security against predators and be protected from the adversities of the weather. The most dangerous predators for birds are cats and martens. Hundreds of thousands of birds are killed every year, mainly by cats. It is therefore crucial to place a nesting box out of reach of these animals.The problem is that cats are excellent climbers who can easily climb a tree. Nevertheless, a nesting box that hangs at a height of two to five meters is usually sufficiently protected from access by a cat. Quite similar is the case with martens. Basically, the following objects are suitable for attaching nesting boxes:
- trees
- free-standing piles and masts
- Exterior walls of houses, garages and sheds
- eaves
direction
time
A new nesting box is best hung in the autumn or late autumn of the previous year. Although no bird will use it at this time, he will be able to get rid of any odors that might irritate the animals until spring. By February at the latest nest boxes should then be in their place.hanging
Basically, two methods are available to safely hang nest boxes. On the one hand, there is the classic hanging, in which the box is hung on a nail, a hook that is also just a branch.Tip: If you want to hang a nesting box by means of a nail on a tree, you should definitely use an aluminum nail. This can prevent serious damage to the tree.
The second method of hanging nesting boxes is based on hinges or slings. Hinges are often used when the box is to be attached to a wall. Wire loops are perfect for mounting on trees and other round objects. In the case of trees, however, the sling should be sheathed to prevent the wire from cutting into the delicate bark, damaging the tree. As sheathing, for example, an old garden hose can be used. It is also important to really tighten the sling (s) to ensure the nesting box stays in place and does not slip off.
distance
If you want to hang several nest boxes at the same time, it is best to keep a distance between them. Even though birds seem to us to be very peace-loving creatures, sometimes they are not without conflicts.Especially when the animals breed, they are sometimes hostile to conspecifics and especially other bird species. They defend their territory, which now focuses on the nest. The distance between two nesting boxes should therefore be at least three meters. Better, however, is a distance of ten meters.cleaning
Although birds are easily able to build a nest in a nesting box. You can not remove the nest after the kittens are fledged. But this is exactly what is needed to rid the case of faeces and food leftovers. After making sure that it is no longer used, a nesting or starter box must be completely cleared out and cleaned. The cleaning is done exclusively with warm water and a brush. Cleaning agents should not be used. On the one hand, without this purification, there is the danger that pathogens will form. On the other hand, it may also be that the animals just do not want to accept a soiled box in the coming year.FAQ - 💬
❓ Which direction should you hang a bird box?
👉 The ideal position is a sheltered north or north-easterly aspect. A tree, wall or even a high fence post can be used to secure the nest box too, but generally, the nest box should be at least 1.5 metres above the ground.Cached
❓ How do you hang a nesting box on a tree?
👉 When mounting to a tree or post, firstly screw the top coach screw half way into the mounting point at the preferred height. Then slip the box over the screw and tighten up. Then attach the lower screw through the lower mounting point and tighten up. Your nest box may be attached to the tree in one of two ways.
❓ Where is the best place to hang a bird house?
👉 Whenever possible, avoid hanging birdhouses from trees or buildings. Instead, attach them to metal poles, which are much easier to put predator guards (baffles) around. Raccoons, squirrels, and cats will raid nest boxes if they are allowed the opportunity.
❓ How do you mount a nesting box?
👉 However. If you find that your box is in relative shade. It doesn't really matter so much. But always make sure there's a clear flight line there's no one likes to cut a doorway.
❓ Can you hang a bird box?
👉 We recommend hanging your nest boxes around 3 metres high to even 5 metres up, to help mimic the natural height of a nesting space in the wild. It's also important to ensure you have a clear flight path to your nest box, so your garden birds can access the bird box easily.
❓ Should a bird box be in the sun?
👉 Keep Out Of The Sunny SouthNot for your nester: do not place your bird box in a south-facing position. These locations make for the hottest bird boxes as it leaves them exposed to the sun. Want to attract small bird species? Try hanging your nest box in a shady spot.