Concerned

[Mickyjoe]

Hi All

just wondering, if i was to get a nest box, would there be compitition from other birds to vacate it?

i have alot of chaffs/bluetits/coaltits..a couple of robins and loads of starlings/sparrows that visit my garden. i know the coaltits/bluetits have a nest just at the far back of my house, but it would be nice to have a nest inside your own garden.

i gave it alot of thought..but concerned if i went along and put a nest box up and all hell brakes loose. does this sort of thing happen? if lets say a coaltit took up residense..would another bird come along and evict him so to speak. its just a thought.

thanks all:)

[PeterReynolds]

Micky

It's not that common for similar birds to scrap over a single residence, but try to site your box away from feeders to avoid competition and the watchful eyes of sparrowhawks/similar, and if installing more than one box, don't put them too close together (min 15 metres).

You might also want to buy one with a metal reinforcement plate on the front to stop larger species using the box or predators (cats, other birds) from attacking the chicks or eggs inside.

[Mickyjoe]

Thanks for the reply pete.
im still thinking about the nest box. if i go ahead and put one up and thats all it will be is one, i will take your advise and keep it away from any feeders. i have seen the coaltits scrapping with eachother around the feeder. maybe they could be playing, it looked harmfull enough but it did get me thinking.
the nest box will be aimed at attracting one of the smallbirds, hopefully one of the tit family. as for other birds that visit my garden...wrens/robins/chaffs/goldfinch/dunnocks...my main concern is the starlings and the monster size crows also magpies. im not saying they will attack but they come in big numbers. i suppose i can give it a go and see what happens and hopefully it wont be a mistake ive made.
thanks again pete
all the best.