National Nest Box Week is the perfect time to give our garden birds a helping hand. As natural nesting sites become harder to find across the UK, providing a safe and secure nest box can make a real difference to local bird populations.
To celebrate, we’re offering up to 39% off selected nest boxes – making it easier than ever to prepare your garden for the busy breeding season ahead.
Why Nest Boxes Matter in the UK
In the wild, birds would naturally nest in tree cavities, hedgerows, and old buildings. However, modern gardening, urban development, and the removal of dead trees mean that suitable nesting spaces are becoming increasingly scarce.
By installing nest boxes in your garden, you can:
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Provide safe shelter from predators and harsh weather
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Support declining species such as House Sparrows and Starlings
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Encourage birds to breed successfully
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Enjoy the privilege of watching birds raise their young up close
In the UK, breeding season typically begins in early spring, but many birds start scouting for suitable nesting sites from late winter onwards. National Nest Box Week (14–21 February) is perfectly timed to get everything in place before nesting begins.
Which Birds Use Nest Boxes?
Different species prefer different styles of nest box. Here are a few common UK garden visitors and what they look for:
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Blue Tits & Great Tits – Small entrance hole (25mm–28mm)
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House Sparrows – Small entrance hole, often prefer terrace-style boxes
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Robins – Open-fronted nest boxes
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Wrens – Small, open-fronted boxes tucked away in shrubs
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Starlings – Larger entrance hole (around 45mm)
Choosing the right box for your garden birds can greatly improve the chances of it being used.
Where to Place a Nest Box in Your Garden
Location is key when it comes to attracting nesting birds. Here are some simple placement tips to give your nest box the best chance of success:
1. Choose the Right Height
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Small hole-fronted boxes: 2–4 metres above the ground
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Open-fronted boxes (for Robins and Wrens): 1.5–2 metres high, hidden in shrubs or climbers
2. Face the Right Direction
Ideally, position the box facing north or east. This helps avoid strong sunlight and the worst of the prevailing wind and rain, protecting the chicks from overheating or exposure.
3. Keep It Quiet
Place nest boxes away from busy feeders and high-traffic areas of your garden. Birds prefer a calm, undisturbed space to raise their young.
4. Avoid Predators
Ensure the box is not easily accessible to cats or other predators. Keep it clear of nearby branches that could provide an easy launching point.
5. Secure It Firmly
Make sure the box is fixed securely to prevent swaying in strong winds. A stable box feels safer to nesting birds.
When Should You Put Up a Nest Box?
Now!
Although spring is the main breeding season, birds will often inspect potential nesting sites well in advance. Installing nest boxes during National Nest Box Week gives birds plenty of time to find and claim their new home.
Even if it isn’t used immediately for nesting, birds may use it as a safe roosting spot during cold nights.
Helping Nesting Birds Thrive
Providing a nest box is just one part of supporting garden birds. During breeding season, adult birds need reliable food sources to feed their growing chicks.
You can help by offering:
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High-protein foods such as mealworms
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Suet products for extra energy
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Quality seed mixes
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A fresh supply of clean water
By combining safe nesting spaces with nutritious food, you create a bird-friendly garden that supports wildlife throughout the year.
Save Up to 39% on Nest Boxes
To mark National Nest Box Week, we’re offering up to 39% off selected nest boxes – making this the perfect time to invest in your garden’s wildlife.
Whether you’re hoping to attract Blue Tits, Robins, Sparrows, or Starlings, there’s a nest box to suit every species and garden size.
Stock is limited, and breeding season is fast approaching, so now’s the time to prepare your garden for spring.
Give Birds a Place to Call Home
Every nest box installed is a small action that makes a big difference. Together, we can help support UK garden birds by providing the safe spaces they need to raise the next generation.
Browse our National Nest Box Week offers today and get ready to welcome new life into your garden this spring.
