What are the benefits of a Starling nest box?
Since 1970, the Starling population has dropping by a significant two thirds in the UK. This means that it is so important to provide a safe space for Starlings to nest and raise chicks.
Providing nest boxes for Starlings offers several valuable benefits, particularly in environments where natural nest sites are scarce due to habitat loss.
One significant advantage is the conservation of cavity nesting birds. As Starlings nest in natural cavities, they face challenges in finding suitable places to nest as urban development progresses. Nest boxes act as artificial cavities, aiding in the preservation of these birds by offering alternative nesting sites.
Where should a Starling nest box be placed?
The ideal place for putting a Starling nest box is under the eaves of a house or on mature trees (if you are fixing it to a tree, make sure you use galvanised screws to reduce damage on the trees).
The nest box should facing North or East, so it is out of the direct sunlight and water doesn't get in the entrance hole, and be at least three metres from the ground so they are safe from ground predators.
When placing your Starling nest box, think about the areas that are the most quiet and least used in your garden. For example, don't place the box on a wall over a door or a used pathway. This way, you ensure the Starling species feel safe.
It's also important to ensure the nest box holes are easily accessible for the bird.
How to attract the Starling species?
Starlings love nooks and corners, so placing the nest box in a corner near a building, or on a structures wall, is the perfect way to create lots of attention surrounding your nest box!
Starlings are gregarious birds and breed in loose colonies, so if you can, try and have several boxes so that they have neighbours and can continue to live in these colonies.
What time of the year do Starlings nest?
Nesting season begins in mid-march, so popping a nest box up in early spring is the best way to encourage Starlings to use you nest box.
When a Starling begins nesting, you will see it taking in twigs and other materials to get the Starling nest box ready for the eggs.
How do I clean a Starling nest box?
At the end of the breeding season, the Starling birds nest box should be taken down for some easy cleaning. Most of our Starling boxes have a hinged roof so they are easy to inspect.
All you have to do is take out the old nesting materials and pour boiling water in the box to clean it out. The water will leave through the drainage holes, leave to dry and put back up when it's dry. Try not to use any chemicals, the boiling water will be enough.
