Nestboxes for Birds - Nestbox Manners

Finally, a word about nestbox manners; the main point to stress is that the bird, its nest and young come first – the frequency and times of visiting should take this into account. Nevertheless the majority of nestbox species are quite tolerant of a careful approach by humans at regular intervals. There are three particularly critical times during the breeding cycle at which disturbance should be kept to a minimum:-

1. During nest building – Observation on the material and frequency of visit can be made from a distance.
2. Hatching – The danger of desertion is high at this time with most small birds.
3. Fledging – Great care should be made to avoid disturbing well developed young, as premature departure form the nest could spell disaster.