The Wildlife Trust has reminded people to clean out their bird boxes during autumn to stop the spread of bacteria and make sure they are safe for birds looking for shelter during winter.
Nestboxes provide a safe and warm habitat for garden birds to feed and raise their young in private – but if they aren't cleaned properly, they can harbour nasty parasites and pose a risk to the animals inside.
A well-designed nestbox will only need cleaning once a year, in the autumn, but it's vital it is done correctly to prepare for the arrival of new birds in need of winter refuge.
How to clean a nestbox
After the end of each nesting season, remove the nesting materials inside the nestbox and clean well to kill any parasites.
Follow these simple cleaning steps:
- Before you begin, it's advised you wear surgical gloves and a dust mask
- Before you remove the box, keep an eye open for any small birds that could still be hiding inside
- You may find flees, ticks and lice when cleaning out the box, so put these straight into a bag and seal it tightly before disposal
- Use a small brush to remove any debris from the corners
- Use boiling water to sterilise the inside
- Let the box dry out before placing the lid back on
- Remember to avoid using insecticides or flea powders
If you don't clean out your nestbox properly, it could become filled with old nesting material. This could result in the nest being closer to the entrance hole, meaning that predators could easily reach the small birds inside. Cleaning also stops the spread of diseases.
How often should you clean your nestbox?
The RSPB recommends cleaning your nestbox in the autumn, from September onwards, once the birds have stopped using the box. Before you remove the box, keep an eye open for any small birds that could still be hiding inside.
According to the Wildlife Trusts, under the terms of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, if unhatched eggs are found in the box, they can only legally be removed from October to January, and they must be destroyed – it is illegal to keep them.
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15 bird feeders to buy right now
Perfect for garden and non-garden owners alike, this small feeder can perch up on a window pane, and is ideal for small birds as well as some bigger ones. An easy way to watch the birds, this feeder is an attractive - and rewarding - piece for the home.
This feeder is great for multiple birds at once, and is lightweight enough to be able to hang off of small branches. Its ergonomic design is something the birds would definitely appreciate, with a domed roof providing protection from the elements, and a smaller base for the food to keep it clean.
The Natural Wood Company Oak 'Applecore' Bird Feeder
This oak bird feeder from The Natural Wood Company is a lovely example of both inconspicuous and beautiful. The varnished oak with hanging chain will fit perfectly into both a vibrant and minimalist garden alike.
For a more minimalist garden, try this cast iron wall mounted bird feeder. Its decorative fixing is stylish yet sparing, and will work especially well with a fountain or small pond nearby. The base grants a lot of room for feeding birds, and allows them a bit of time to socialise, too!
Combat minimalism with this brass-like, patterned feeder, granting a sense of luxury to the garden space, whilst still protecting the bird food from unwanted visitors. Its contemporary style will fit well into any modern garden.
This set of bird feeders allows each bird its personal space. Its simple dome and ball shapes suit almost any garden, and works best sheltered under hanging trees.
Want a bird feeder, but tired of the squirrels getting there first? This heavy duty, squirrel proof feeder is a perfect solution, whilst still upholding a sense of style. Its inconspicuous design works well in any garden. You don't have to worry about pesky squirrels anymore with this vendor.
Having a window feeder such as this is great for keeping the birds happy, since it is open and anti-claustrophobic. It is also large enough for multiple birds to dine together, and comes with practical suction pads to easily stick onto windows and smooth surfaces.
Garden Selections Vintage Cast Iron Heart Shaped Bird Seed Feeder
This vintage bird feeder is a great housewarming gift. Its deep bowl allows for an array of different snacks and treats for the local birds.
This raindrop feeder is a pretty edition to any outdoor space. Fitted with both suction pads and a hanging string, this feeder is handsome and versatile.
Currently reduced to clear, this feeder from John Lewis is great for an array of positions, and types of food. Hang it on a tree, a balcony or a wall. Attach fruits for the birds with its handy spike.
These feeders at Crocus are designed to fit fat or suet balls - high energy food for little birds. You can arrange multiple feeders in and around the same tree, as shown here, to create a little bird gathering.
Thompson Morgan Kingfisher Hanging Mealworm Bird Feeder With Plastic Canopy
You'll have regular customers in no time with this generous one-stop-shop, with the dome-shaped roof of this feeder perfect for protecting the birds, and a large base to fit a good amount of food.
Shaped in the style of a park bench, this piece will truly complement any garden, and increase both your own wellness and the wellbeing of local wildlife.
Garden Locker Twin Copper Bronze Bird Feeder for Garden Birds - Outdoor Metal 2 in 1 Bird Feeder Holds Wild Bird Seed Mix & Peanuts
This tall feeder fits two types of bird feed, to satisfy a variety of different feathered friends. Hang this on a tree in the garden or nearby perch, and you'll have them flocking to you in no time.
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Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.
