Which bird box should I choose?

Looking to make your garden more wildlife friendly? A bird box is a great first step. However, if you haven’t already noticed, there are a lot to choose from!

With different shapes, materials and sizes on offer, you’re forgiven for feeling confused. To help you out, I’ve reviewed three bird boxes from CJ Wildlife, a UK-based brand that has a huge range of bird houses – and many other products that will help wildlife – to choose from.

 

 

Where to place your bird box Before you’ve bought your bird box, it might be a good idea to figure out where you’re going to place it. Here are some tips: Make sure it’s out of reach of cats. Cats are the biggest killers of wild birds in the UK, so it’s important to keep any birds nesting in your garden out of harm’s way. Try placing your bird box away from things that cats can climb, and at least 2m above ground level. Don’t place your box in an area where there’s full sun. A north or east facing area is ideal. Place your box in an area that is sheltered from harsh winds and rain, and if you can, tilt it slightly forwards to avoid rain falling in through the entrance. Don’t obscure the entrance. For example, if placing your box in a tree, make sure there’s a route between branches to allow birds to easily come and go. Want to attract larger birds? If you’re lucky enough to live in an area where larger birds roam, choose an appropriate sized box and place it higher up – between 3 and 5m above ground level. When to put up a bird box Bird boxes for small birds can be put up in the spring. Try to put one up as early as possible, as breeding pairs will begin to scout out nesting locations in late February to early March. However, if you buy one later than this, it’s still worth putting it up, as some birds will nest in them during the winter months. Try not to disturb your bird box by check inside it to see if birds are nesting. Instead, watch it at intervals throughout the day, and if your placement is successful, you may see the birds flitting in and out through the entrance.

The Funchal Lounge Roosting Nest

Best for small birds such as great tits, blue tits, pied flycatchers, tree sparrows and house sparrows

This natural looking, teardrop shaped nest box is made from a lightweight rattan material, which means that it is easily camouflaged when positioned amongst sheltered bushes thanks to its texture and colour. Not only will it look great enshrouded amongst a blanket of ivy, for example, but it’ll also be more protected from predators when camouflaged.

The shape creates plenty of space inside for small birds to grow, feed and thrive. It’s a beautiful and practical refuge from the elements.

Size: 15 x 15 x 30 cm

Entrance Hole: 32 mm

Buy it here.

 

National Trust Robin & Wren Nest Box

Best for robins and wrens

Created by the National Trust, this wooden nest box has been crafted to keep robins and wrens safe – two delightful birds to watch in the garden!

It features a fairly wide opening at the front, which is sheltered by a mini green roof. Best of all, the bottom of the box opens up via a catch, making it easy to clean out after nesting season each year, keeping your local birds clean and free from disease.

Size: 20 x 26 x 17cm 

Buy it here.

Stafford Half Open Nest Box

Best for pied wagtails and blackbirds

Though this bird house might seem too ‘open’, some birds actually prefer this style, such as blackbirds and pied wagtails.

It has been designed with wood that has been thermally modified by heating it in an oxygen depleted environment at more than 180⁰C, significantly improving durability. 

Not only that, but this process makes the appearance more unique, thanks to the pleasing ‘flamed’ surface paired with the black roof. All in all, a smart bird box to have in your garden!

Size: 18 x 14.5 x 18cm

Buy it here.

 

Browse more of CJ Wildlife’s expertly designed bird boxes here.

Images courtesy of CJ Wildlife.