Birds usually accept a nest box with gratitude. However, the animals are also choosy when it comes to their own home, especially if they see their own health or that of their offspring at risk. This article will show you possible causes that lead to birds avoiding your nest box.
Wrong location can often be the reason why a nest box is left uninhabited
Common general reasons
- not posted in time
- inappropriate location
- better deals nearby
- Nature of the nest box
draft
The entrance hole should always face east-southeast to avoid westerly winds. With a self-made nesting box (€49.85), warped boards or poorly finished wooden walls can also lead to draughts.
Late attachment
After mild winters, birds often start building their nests as early as February. So hang up your nesting box in autumn.
Concealed entry hole
Birds use the direct route to their nest. If trees or bushes block the flight path, the nesting box is rejected.
Unclean processing
Birds easily injure themselves on a sharp-edged entrance hole. If you see a tit repeatedly pecking at the entrance hole, this indicates splintered edges.
Wrong size of entry hole
Each species of bird prefers a different size of entrance hole. In order to attract as many bird species as possible, you should hang up several nesting boxes with different designs.
Coating hazardous to health
Only use environmentally friendly paint such as linseed oil to paint your nest box. Birds can perceive toxic substances and avoid them.
Wrong location
In direct sunlight, the inside of the nesting box heats up considerably. Therefore, never align it to the south.
predators nearby
Keep a cat that often roams the garden. She is certainly lurking in wait for breeding birds - an understandable reason to avoid the nesting box.
Not enough food
In order to consume as little energy as possible during the breeding season, birds prefer a home where there is a plentiful supply of food. Set up a bird feeder or hang fat balls (9.99€) in the tree.
insects
It is not uncommon for bumblebees or bees to make themselves comfortable in a nesting box. But birds are reluctant to share their nests with buzzing guests.
Troubled Environment
Busy roads or playing children disturb the birds when breeding and feeding.
Filled nest box
Birds build their own nests. You don't need to already stock your nest box with materials.
Better Deals
If the nesting box in the neighboring garden meets the requirements, this is of course preferred.
Too little distance
There is also competition among birds. Several nesting boxes should therefore have a distance of 10 meters.