Taking place each year in mid-February, it’s timed just right, many birds are beginning to scout out safe nesting spots as the breeding season approaches.
With modern housing, fewer hedgerows and tidier gardens, natural nesting sites are harder to come by. A simple nest box can make a real difference.
What Is National Nestbox Week?
Launched by the British Trust for Ornithology, National Nestbox Week encourages households, schools and communities across the UK to put up nest boxes before spring truly gets going.
The goal is simple:
more nest boxes = more opportunities for birds to breed successfully.
Why Nest Boxes Matter
Many common garden birds—such as blue tits, great tits, robins and sparrows—struggle to find suitable nesting spaces. Old trees with natural cavities are disappearing, and urban gardens don’t always offer the shelter birds need.
A well-placed nest box can:
Protect birds from predators and harsh weather
Improve breeding success
Bring wildlife closer to home (without disturbing it)
Support local biodiversity in a very practical way
Choosing the Right Nest Box
Not all birds like the same type of home, so a little planning helps:
Small hole boxes (25–28mm): Blue tits, coal tits
Larger hole boxes (32mm): Great tits, house sparrows
Open-fronted boxes: Robins, wrens
Wooden boxes are best, as they breathe naturally and keep temperatures stable. Avoid painted or varnished interiors—birds prefer things simple and natural.
Where (and How) to Put It Up
Position boxes 2–4 metres off the ground
Face them north or east, away from strong sun and rain
Keep them clear of feeders to reduce disturbance
Fix them securely to a tree, wall or fence
Once installed, resist the urge to peek—birds value peace and quiet when nesting.
Get the Whole Family Involved
National Nestbox Week is a brilliant excuse to:
Build a nest box together
Track which birds visit your garden
Teach children about wildlife conservation
Add a bit of nature-watching joy to everyday life
Even one box can spark curiosity and a lifelong appreciation of birds.
A Small Act with a Big Impact
You don’t need acres of countryside to help wildlife. A single nest box in a modest garden—or even on a quiet balcony—can offer a safe haven at a critical time of year.
So this National Nestbox Week, grab a box, a ladder and a bit of enthusiasm.
